Entertainment In Santiago De Compostela

One might think that Santiago de Compostela might be a bit dull and boring, being such an important religious city. Nothing could be further from the truth however, and much is owed to the famous university, whose students more than succeed in their efforts to liven up the town. There is a very good selection of cafs, clubs and bars around the city. Being the capital of Galicia, it also has its responsibilities, and Santiago does its best to put on the best performing arts productions and is also home to the regions best restaurants.

Eating out

As in any other Spanish city, eating here is much more than just satisfying hunger; its a daily ritual that is the main social activity of the town. The locals eat five or six times a day, with dinner typically being quite late in the evening. Around Santiagos squares, plazas and lanes, youll find countless cafs, restaurants and bars. In particular, the rua do Franco and rua do Raina, two lanes near the Cathedral, are extremely popular and lined with all kinds of outlets. Rua do Vilar is also a favourite due to its superb seafood restaurants.

In Santiago, the line between caf, restaurant and bar is often blurred, and every drinking establishment will have a selection of tapas, if not heartier meals. While local Galicia dishes form the majority of menus, there is a wide selection of establishments serving international dishes in the touristy areas of the city and near to the university.

Local cuisine

The regional Galicia cuisine is typified by its use of seafood, including fish, squid and shellfish. Santiago dishes that are unique and famous are Saint Jacobs shell (viera); pulpo a la Gallega/Feira (a salad with paprika and olive oil as well as either octopus or squid), and lacon con grelos (ham and turnip dish). Galicia cuisine is noted for relying on the quality and taste of the ingredients themselves, and is not overly adorned or sauced. Meals are usually washed down with local wines, which are among the best in Spain. For dessert, try the tarta compostela, a delicious almond tart unique to the city.

Theatre and music

Much of Santiagos performing arts scene is youthful and modern, being influenced and patronised by the university population. Alternative theatres are very popular and can be seen at great venues such as the Auditorio de Galicia and Teatro Principal, with programmes changing regularly. Street performances are also common, with the city noted for its clowns, or tunas, who dress up in brightly coloured costumes modelled on medieval clothing and go around the streets, lanes, cafs and bars singing, dancing and generally clowning around.

Santiago is not noted for its live music; however, there are a couple of music festivals held annually, and the Centro de Documentacin das Artes Escenicas e Musicais de Galicia puts on regular concerts with a classical theme.

Shopping

Santiago has literally thousands of stores and is a shoppers delight. Popular buys include religious paraphernalia, candles and tacky souvenirs; however, you will be amazed at some of the other items available. There are many ceramic stores selling the famous local blue and white pottery as well as shops selling perishables such as cheese and wine. Local wares such as hats and bags are also good buys. Mixing it with these traditional shops are hundreds of modern outlets selling designer labels and exclusive brands.

Every square is lined with its own selection of shops and the ancient lanes running off the plazas are packed with tiny outlets that are fun to explore. Here you will also be able to observe local artisans at work and pick up some unique items at great prices.