Architect Explains Controversial Pipes on Gothic Gargoyles in Santiago. A dispute has erupted in Santiago over new metal pipes installed on the Gothic gargoyles of the Hostal dos Reis Católicos. The architect insists the decision is historically justified and protects the façade from deterioration.
The conflict over the restoration of the Hostal dos Reis Católicos façade continues in Santiago de Compostela. Architect Fernando Cobos, responsible for the project, publicly defends the installation of metal pipes in the Gargoyles, despite harsh criticism from residents and heritage specialists. According to him, this measure is the most effective way to channel rainwater and minimize damage to the historic building, especially given the increasingly frequent downpours.
The issue sparked widespread public debate after a noticeable metal duct was installed on one of the Gargoyles depicting a person in an unusual pose. This detail became symbolic of the controversy: local residents and organizations, including Apatrigal, filed a complaint with Icomos, and the Galician authorities promised to consider alternatives. At a meeting at the College of Architects of Galicia, Cobos not only defended his position but also mocked critics, comparing the Gargoyle to a 'trumpet pipe' and recalling medieval analogues of similar depictions.
The architect emphasized that the decision was based on historical documents: as early as 1561, designer Rodrigo Gil de Hontañón proposed using similar pipes to divert water. Cobos noted that before the restoration, the façade elements were seriously damaged, and his team chose an option that could be easily removed without harm to the monument. He also pointed out that alternative methods, such as hidden channels, could be less effective or more expensive for the building.
During the discussion, other opinions were also voiced. Some participants called for greater respect for the historical appearance and transparency in decision-making, reminding that monuments are public property. Cobos, in turn, stated that any changes must be based on a thorough knowledge of the site and be as reversible as possible. He added that over the next two years the system will be tested in practice, and final conclusions will be drawn after monitoring the condition of the façade.
The situation surrounding Hostal dos Reis Católicos reflects a broader trend: in Spain, there are frequent debates about acceptable methods for restoring historic sites. Similar conflicts are not uncommon in other regions of the country as well, where heritage preservation issues come up against the need to adapt to modern conditions. For example, in Cáceres, the authorities recently allocated funds for the exhumation of victims of Francoism, which also sparked a public debate — more on this can be found in the article about funding work to search for remains in Cáceres.
Hostal dos Reis Católicos is considered one of the oldest hotels in Europe and an important part of Santiago's cultural landscape. The building is located on the city's main square — Praza do Obradoiro, next to the cathedral where thousands of pilgrims arrive each year. The question of how to balance preserving its historical appearance with meeting safety and contemporary climate requirements remains open for many monuments across the country.
