Cathedral in the morning

Side door from the Cathedral usually used as one of the exits after the Service
The Towers as seen from San Martin Pinario terrace

This is what the Pilgrims' final steps are -
The archway you pass under just before stepping into the final destination of the Camino is known as the Arco de Palacio (Palace Arch), also frequently referred to as the Arco de Xelmírez.
This iconic stone tunnel-gate connects the northern Praza da Inmaculada (Azabachería) with the grand Plaza del Obradoiro. It passes directly underneath the Pazo de Xelmírez (Archbishop's Palace), which stands adjacent to the northern flank of the Santiago de Compostela Cathedral.

Key Details
Location: It is a vaulted, tunnel-like passageway located between the northern side of the Santiago de Compostela Cathedral and the Hostal dos Reis Católicos (the Parador hotel). It directly connects the Plaza de la Azabachería (Praza da Inmaculada) to the grand Plaza de Obradoiro.
The Pilgrim Experience: As the traditional entry point for pilgrims completing the Camino Francés (French Way), walking through this dark, stone tunnel acts as a dramatic reveal. Your vision opens up directly into the massive, sunlit expanse of the main square.
The Bagpiper Tradition: The tunnel is famous for its exceptional acoustics. You will almost always find a traditional Galician bagpiper (gaiteiro) playing inside it, providing an emotional, echoey soundtrack for pilgrims taking their final steps to the cathedralRead more