The Hostal dos Reis Católicos — the Parador de Santiago de Compostela — is the grandest building on the Praza do Obradoiro, and one of the finest examples of Spanish Plateresque architecture anywhere. Founded by the Catholic Monarchs Ferdinand and Isabella in 1501 as a royal pilgrim hospital, it was converted into a luxury hotel in 1954, and now forms part of the Spanish state parador chain.
The facade is extraordinary — an elaborate carved doorway in the Plateresque style, dense with heraldic detail, column figures, and decorative stonework. Even if you are not staying, it is worth walking through the entrance to see the four interior cloisters. Non-guests can have a drink in the bar or eat at the restaurant, which gives access to the building without committing to the room rates.