For centuries, pilgrims have crossed Europe in order to visit Santiago de Compostela, one of the holiest cities in Christendom, and pay homage at the Galician capital's cathedral, housed in one of the world's most architecturally fascinating buildings. Sharing the iconic Praza do Obradoiro is luxury hotel Hostal dos Reis Católicos, Santiago's Parador, which is not only considered to be the oldest hotel in the world, but also one of the most beautiful and lavish locations within the Paradores network.

Unique rooms

Built in 1499 to serve as a royal hospital, Parador Santiago de Compostela is a jewel containing stunning cloisters, elegant rooms, and a truly spectacular dining room that offers the finest in regional Spanish cuisine. While any room in this Parador is exceptional, the Hostal dos Reis Católicos also features four completely unique rooms with interesting history or one-of-a-kind vistas.

Guests staying at the unique rooms at Parador Santiago are given a bottle of Cava, a fruit basket, and daily newspaper service as well as a special dinner menu that includes fresh local fish and meat as well as traditional pastries, all of which are prepared according to Galician recipes. Come morning, the hotel also serves guests a delicious breakfast in the room.

Royal treatment

You'll feel like a king in the Real "Royal" Suite, which is located on the main façade of the building and overlooks the Praza do Obradoiro. Sitting in the heart of Santiago de Compostela's city center, the Praza do Obradoiro marks the end of St. James' Way, the legendary pilgrimage route that stretches across Europe. Each day, hundreds of pilgrims arrive here and make their way to the cathedral, where they receive a certificate that attests to their journey.

The buildings surrounding the square are all marvels of different architectural periods, from the medieval Colexio de San Xerome - currently the home of the city's university-to the neoclassical Pazo de Raxoi - a palace that currently houses Santiago's city hall. The suite's bedroom features a double half tester bed as well as a living room with amble balcony and coffered ceiling, while the full bathroom suite boasts a hydro massage shower.

Another option is the Cardinal Suite, named in honor of the eminent Galician bishop Quiroga Palacias. Housed in one of the finest bedrooms in the hotel, this suite features a stunning Mudéjar coffered ceiling and period furniture ranging from a 17th-century friar's chair made with golden thread, to a Baroque painting of St. Dorothy. The bedroom's two double four-poster beds and fireplace will make you feel as if you're a dream...from which you'd rather not awake!

Archival beauty

Nicolás de Neyra was the Pilgrim's Hospital's administrator during the 18th century, and the one responsible for the construction of the Hostal dos Reis Católico's offices and archives. Today, this space houses two of the Parador's most beloved rooms, the Former Archive and San Lucas rooms.

The Former Hospital Archive features a double four-poster bed, as well as charming architectural elements. Meanwhile, luxury and comfort meet within the San Lucas room, which combines vaulted ceilings and ancient stone walls with the soft comfort of a double four-poster bed.

Interested in staying in one of Parador Santiago de Compostela's unique rooms? Contact Paradores today.