The Palace of Gelmírez was built in the 12th century

The Palace of Gelmírez was built in the 12th century and, as it is possible to see, it is attached to the Cathedral from Santiago de Compostela. Its construction was ordered by the archbishop Gelmírez in order to replace the old episcopal residence which had been attacked and destroyed by popular uprisings at that time. Since then it will be the archbishop's residence during many centuries. In the 18th century a new plant was added to the two initial ones and the old romanesque style facade was covered by a new barroque one. Nowadays it is a museum, and the most interesting part to visit are the kitchens placed in the second floor. Its size is huge and it helps to understand the clergy's standard of living at that period of time.