1. Introduction to Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela
Designed by "Bernard the elder, a wonderful master", ‘The Cathedral of Santiago de
Compostela’ had stood more than 10 centuries in Galicia, a state in north-western Spain. Being a
blend of Romanesque, Gothic &
Baroque architecture styles, the
building itself was named
according to the name of the
former bishop, where ‘Santiago’
represents his name, St. James,
while ‘Compostela’ comes from a
Latin word “Campus Stellae”;
meaning ‘burial ground’ as a
euphemism. The basilica was
erected approximately 818 A.D.
during the reign of Alfonso II, King
of Asturias after the tomb of
Apostle St. James was accidentally
discovered by Bishop Teodomiro at
a miraculous spot.
Form & Shape of Cathedral
As said by unknown, (2010), the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela was designed to be in
the shape of a Latin Cross, which is 97m long where the main purpose of its great length is mainly to
accommodate a large number of pilgrims at the same time as it is the end of the pilgrimage routes in
the world.
St. James The Greater, one of the apostle of
Jesus Christ. Being a religious man, he is the
most sincere person among the disciples of
Jesus Christ.

2. Materials & methods of Construction
Numerous portions of these structures were made of stone and concrete producing it to be
highly preserved. Asian Romans’ concrete consist of lime water, sand and pozzolana. Pozzolana is
made up of volcanic ash, water and stone. Romans used to put these ingredients in wooden frames
so when it get harden it will be bonded to a facing of stone or brick. These materials are very
resistant since there are still roman structures standing more than 2000 years.
Significance, function & purpose of building
Not only functioning as a monument for St. James the Greater, Santiago de Compostela also
acts as a major pilgrimage route since early Middle Ages. According to UNESCO (n.d.), the existence
of this particular cathedral is relatively significant as the exemplary nature of this city of Christian
pilgrimage which is enriched by the ideological connotations of the Reconquista is echoed by the
great spiritual significance of one of the few places that are so deeply imbued with faith as to
become sacred for the tile of humanity.
Besides, The Galician tomb placed in the cathedral had also been the symbol of the
resistance of Spanish Christians against Islam over a millennium since it was destroyed by the
Muslims at the end of the 10th century. Thus, the existence of Cathedral de Compostela not only
influenced the cultural believes of Galician, but also contribute to the alteration of Spain’s history.
Reflection & Influence of building style to spirit time & place
The Cathedral itself consists of 3 architectural styles, which are Romanesque, Gothic &
Baroque where each of the styles reflects different spirit of time and place.
The Romanesque style is an architectural style of Medieval Europe characterized by semi-
circular arches; for instance, ‘Portico de la Gloria’, functioned as the main entrance of the cathedral
was introduced during the 12th
century when Romanesque was among the most popular
architecture style among the Galicians.

3. During the 13th century, the altar of the Santiago Cathedral was designed where large
pieces of windows were set into walls, admitting light through vast expanses of stained glass. As
referred to The Columbia Electronic Encyclopedia, 6th ed (2012), Gothic construction is
characterized by lightness where the spiritual and mysterious quality of light contribute as an
‘The Jambs’ - sculptures of famous musicians during that
era carved on the column of ‘Portico de la Gloria’
Main ‘altar’ designed in Gothic style - located in the nave, exactly
above the crypt; where the tomb of St. James was placed

4. important element of the religious symbolism of Gothic cathedrals in the medieval ages.
Finally in the 17th and 18th century, the architecture design was rather unique compared to
other styles; for instance, highly decorative details & ornaments can be found on the Baroque
extensions such as ‘the Holy Gate’ ("Puerta Santa") and the main facade of the cathedral, ‘Façade del
Obradoiro’. Furthermore, an abundancy of towers as well as domes can be found on a Baroque
building; taking the Santiago Cathedral as example, the Bell Towers & ‘Tower de la Carraca’ were
among the towers that were attached to the main facade. From the design of the building in this era,
we can see that the people were becoming more attentive & thoughtful after so many centuries.
The value of patience can be seen not only in the designers, but also in the spirit of the Galicians.
Facade del Obradoiro- the main facade of
Santiago Cathedral that is still standing in
Galicia, Spain which was designed in the
17th
century.

5. As conclusion, Santiago de Compostela is one of the cathedral in the Medieval which went
through several reconstruction in different era; hence, it is a blend of 3 different architecture styles.
The existence of this building is not only meant to be the place of memorial of St. James The Greater,
an apostle of Jesus Christ but also as the final destination for Christians to complete their pilgrim. At
present, the cathedral is still standing as a famous church and tourist attraction that compose of
different characteristics.
(777 words)

6. As conclusion, Santiago de Compostela is one of the cathedral in the Medieval which went
through several reconstruction in different era; hence, it is a blend of 3 different architecture styles.
The existence of this building is not only meant to be the place of memorial of St. James The Greater,
an apostle of Jesus Christ but also as the final destination for Christians to complete their pilgrim. At
present, the cathedral is still standing as a famous church and tourist attraction that compose of
different characteristics.
(777 words)