The
Santiago de Compostela train station
which is part of the Intermodal Station next to the bus station, is one of the key points in the area when traveling between cities and to other parts of Spain.
The origin of the current building dates back to 1943, as part of the creation of Renfe. The city had another station, Cornes, but with the opening of the A Coruña – Santiago line, it was replaced by the current one.
Its design follows the aesthetics of the Galician pazos, with two floors and two asymmetrical towers topped with battlements. The main entrance is marked by a portico with arches that gives it an imposing appearance. In addition, a monumental stone staircase was built to bridge the difference in level with the rúa do Hórreo.
Although it has undergone changes and remodeling in its distribution to adapt to the new times, one of the elements that has remained intact is this staircase, inspired by that of the sanctuary of A Escravitude in Padrón, which is part of the collective memory of the city.
In its beginnings, the building lacked a canopy and was located in semi-rural territory, far from the urban center. What were once open fields have now become housing developments and neighborhoods in Santiago. In fact, although it is now close to the center, it was once considered to be on the outskirts and, as the city expanded, buildings moved closer to it.
The station consists of three platforms and five tracks. These platforms are connected through a series of subway passages and are covered by a metal structure that protects passengers from rain and bad weather, perfect for waiting for the train.
It offers high-speed, medium-distance services between the many cities of Galicia, such as Pontevedra, A Coruña or Vigo, and long-distance services with other provinces of the country, thanks to Intercity or Alvia trains.
Inside, there are ticket counters, toilets, kiosks, ticket offices, a cafeteria, a customer service point and a car rental office. In addition, there is a huge parking lot outside and a cab stand to facilitate the transportation of newcomers.
Since 2021, the building has been connected to the bus station by a huge footbridge, which facilitates the transfer.
