Alameda Park is a large park located in the heart of Santiago de Compostela. Designed to resemble the grounds of a grand country estate, the park has more than 90 different types of plants. Join locals at this well-loved place to breathe fresh air and escape the city. The park also hosts lively concerts and performances throughout the year.
The park was originally developed on land donated to the city by the counts of Altamira in the 16th century. Over time, it has expanded to incorporate three sets of gardens: Alameda Park, the Ferradura walk and the Oak Wood of Santa Susana.
At the entrance to the park, look for the colourful statues of two famous siblings, nicknamed “the two Marías.” Persecuted for their left-leaning political views during the Spanish Civil War, these two sisters dressed up in flamboyant outfits and walked around the park beginning at 2 p.m. every day. These attention-grabbing strolls in the park are remembered as a quiet protest against the conservative culture that repressed Spanish society at the time.
The three main paths you see in the park were designed to accommodate the three different social classes that existed when the park was formed. The path on the right was for lower class people the central one was for nobility and the one on the left was for teachers, clergymen and other educated professionals. Follow the one that suits your preference.
See the Baroque Chapel of Santa Susana in the park’s Oak Wood of Santa Susana. This area of the park also has many regal oak trees, some as much as 200 years old.
The beginning of the Ferradura walk is marked by a pair of columns decorated with lion figures, known as the Paseo de los Leóns. Head east of this arch to find a lookout point to enjoy beautiful views over the city’s Old Town. Look for the towering Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela toward the north and the new town toward the south.
Alameda Park is located west of the city’s Old Town. Walk here from most areas in the city.
