Museo Pedagóxico de Galicia

Museo Pedagóxico de Galicia (MUPEGA), in Santiago de Compostela, is the only museum in the region dedicated to the history of Galician schooling. It opened in October 2004, though the idea for such an institution dates back to a 1926 project that envisioned a Galician museum center devoted to education. The museum operates under the regional education department (Consellería de Educación) and occupies a building on San Lázaro street, a quiet area a short walk from the historic center and the cathedral.

What will you see at MUPEGA?

The exhibition spans three floors and takes visitors through the evolution of Galician schools, from 19th-century classrooms to the era of EGB, Spain's general basic education system used until the 1990s. The ground floor features reconstructed classroom interiors from different periods, complete with original desks, blackboards, maps and everyday objects used by students and teachers.

The upper floors are organized into four thematic units. The first traces how the classroom changed over the decades; the second is dedicated to special education; the third covers secondary and vocational schooling; and the fourth displays materials from the old provincial institutes that gave rise to the Mupega museum network. Among the exhibits are also toys and objects Galician children played with in past centuries — a favorite section for adults recalling their own school days and for younger visitors alike.

How do you get to the museum?

Museo Pedagóxico de Galicia is located at Rúa de San Lázaro 107 in Santiago de Compostela. From the city center and the cathedral area, the easiest option is to walk — the route takes roughly 15 to 20 minutes. Visitors relying on public transport can use city bus lines that stop near San Lázaro street. Drivers will find on-street parking in the surrounding area. If in doubt, it's worth calling +34 981 540 150 to confirm current opening hours before visiting.

When should you visit?

MUPEGA is a small, quiet museum best explored outside peak tourist hours — weekday mornings, when the rooms are nearly empty, work well. It makes a good addition to a Santiago de Compostela itinerary beyond the usual cathedral and old-town route, especially for travelers with children or anyone interested in the history of education and everyday life in Galicia. A full visit typically takes between 45 minutes and an hour and a half.

Frequently asked questions

What is Museo Pedagóxico de Galicia? It is a museum dedicated to the history of schooling in Galicia, opened in 2004, showcasing reconstructed classrooms and educational objects spanning the 19th to the late 20th century.

Where is the museum located? At Rúa de San Lázaro 107 in Santiago de Compostela, a short walk from the city's historic center.

What can you see inside? Reconstructed classrooms from different eras, exhibits on special and vocational education, and a collection of old school toys and objects.

How long does a visit take? Usually between 45 minutes and about an hour and a half, depending on interest and how busy the museum is that day.