The park was redesigned in the 1990s by Portuguese architect Álvaro Siza and landscape architect Isabel Aguirre.
The sloping terrain was historically used by the Dominican monks for farming and agricultural activities.
The park contains the Pantheon of Illustrious Galicians, which holds the remains of notable figures such as Rosalía de Castro and Alfonso Daniel Rodríguez Castelao.
The site integrates a former cemetery with traditional stone crosses, preserving the contemplative atmosphere of the original monastic enclosure.
The elevation difference between the lowest and highest points of the park is approximately 25 meters.
Parque de San Domingos de Bonaval is a multi-level park constructed on the grounds of a former 13th-century Dominican monastery in Santiago de Compostela. The park design transitions from a formal garden near the monastery entrance to a sloping woodland area featuring ancient oak trees. It houses two major cultural institutions: the Museo do Pobo Galego, located in the monastery buildings, and the Centro Galego de Arte Contemporánea (CGAC), designed by architect Álvaro Siza. The layout reflects a tiered structure that overcomes the steep hillside elevation, offering elevated views over the historic city center and its rooftops. The park remains a primary green lung within the UNESCO World Heritage area of the city. Paths lead visitors through historical cemetery ruins and alongside the original granite monastery walls.
The upper terrace near the cemetery, facing the historic city skyline.
Walk to the highest point of the park to view the distinct architecture of the Santiago de Compostela cathedral spires.
Wear comfortable, sturdy footwear, as the park features significant inclines and traditional granite-paved surfaces.
Attempting to traverse the steep, uneven inclines in formal footwear or thin-soled shoes.
