Else Beekman
Every year, pilgrims from around the world travel through all kinds of weather, enduring blisters, swollen ankles, and aching muscles to reach Santiago de Compostela. This week, the city celebrates its patron saint, Saint James, with vibrant festivities.
The feast day of Saint James falls on July 25th, marking a week of celebrations in Santiago de Compostela. Those arriving at the end of their pilgrimage will find the city in full festive swing. The streets will be bustling with activities and cultural events.
The Festas do Apóstolo is a summer highlight in Santiago de Compostela, dedicated to Saint James, the patron saint of Spain. This celebration is a blend of culture, tradition, and religion, featuring colourful parades, musical performances, and various cultural events that captivate both locals and visitors.
A key event is the impressive midnight mass in Santiago’s cathedral. Here the Botafumeiro, a massive incense burner, is swung through the air, offering a unique spiritual experience. July 24th and 25th are the two main days. On the night of July 24th there is an impressive firework display in honour of the Apostle, visible from different points in the city. Colours light up the night sky, while traditional Galician music and dances add to the festive atmosphere.
The pilgrimage to Santiago
Annually, thousands of pilgrims prepare for the journey to Santiago. The pilgrimage route has existed for over a thousand years since Saint James’ tomb was discovered in the 9th century. During the Middle Ages, the route was one of the busiest in Europe. Many pilgrims starting their journey from home and walking back after reaching Santiago. Nobles and knights often sent humble pilgrims in their stead due to their own commitments.
Santiago’s prominence as a pilgrimage site waned during the mid-14th century plague and the Protestant Reformation two centuries later. By 1980, the number of pilgrims had dwindled to just a thousand. However, the 1980s saw a revival as modern pilgrims rediscovered the route. Today, many walkers, riders, and cyclists undertake the pilgrimage not for religious reasons, but for personal reflection, to overcome challenges, or for the sheer experience.
The Camino Francés is the most famous route, starting from various points in the Netherlands, Germany, and France. The Camino del Norte crosses green northern Spain, while the oldest route, the Camino Primitivo, begins in Oviedo. And the Camino de la Plata starts in Seville, and the Camino Portugués is followed by pilgrims from Portugal.
Practical information for pilgrims
Pilgrims can request a pilgrim’s passport before embarking on the Camino de Santiago. This passport, available in starting points like Roncesvalles and Jaca, can be exchanged for a “compostela” certificate in Santiago upon completing the pilgrimage.
This passport also grants access to pilgrim hostels, where overnight stays are usually free in Galicia or cost between €3 and €12 elsewhere. Pilgrims are allowed to stay one night before continuing their journey.
Also read: When is the best time to visit the Camino de Santiago?