New pilgrims' rest site by the Santiago Catheedral

[Rosina Lila]

Hello you all,
"La Casa del Dean"  (corner of Rua do Vilar con Ximenez) next to the
Cathedral is being renovated to serve as a welcome site and resting place of pilgrims;
the renovations are expected to be completed late this year.
The eighteenth century baroque  building has been declared a Patrimony of
Humanity and it is one of the most important in Compostelan history.  It was
built by architect Clemente Sarela  as a residence of the Deans (authoritative
Cathedral  administrators),  and a place where Cardinals and Bishops visiting
Santiago could stay.
The Santiago Cabildo (Municipal Council) has just approved the expenditure of
the funds needed to renovate the ground floor and the inner courtyard.  The
present dean of the Cathedral, Manuel Calvo Tojo,  has stated the desire of the
Archdiocese to have a welcoming place "worthy of pilgrims".
The plan includes offering facilities where pilgrims may leave their
backpacks, bicycles, etc., before going into the Cathedral.  The ground floor will
also include bathrooms and refreshing places (modern Lavacollas?) and even a
cafeteria.
Under the trees in the courtyard pilgrims will be able to rest in a pleasant
area while waiting to get the Compostela. The ancient well in the middle of
the courtyard, presently paved over, will be reopened.

Warm regards,
Rosina
.