Fascinating Santiago de Compostela

After we left the Duoro Valley we headed towards Santiago de Compostela, Spain. We had decided that since we were on the western side of the Iberian Peninsula this would be an easy add to our trip. On the way we stopped in Braga to visit the old town and have lunch. Santiago was a fascinating visit as it is the end of many pilgrimage paths made over many centuries, and continues to this day.

Wandering around Braga

We enjoyed wandering around Braga and taking in the sites. It is considered a religious center of Portugal due to the many baroque churches. Along the way we found two more entries into our “skinniest house in Portugal” contest. The Santa Barbara gardens are spectacular and we couldn’t believe how they placed so many flowers in the space.

Santiago

For over 1000 years the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela has been a pilgrimage site. There are many paths, called the Camino, to get there. The longest is 600 miles, and the many others vary in length and difficulty. Pilgrims must travel at least 100km on foot (or 200km by horse or bike) to be certified officially as having completed a pilgrimage. The cathedral is spectacular and the surrounding town is fun to explore.

The Emotions of Completing the Camino

We did not hike to Santiago, so we will never know that sense of accomplishment. However, we could feel the emotion in the plaza in front of the cathedral as hundreds of people (alone or in groups) completed their journey often hugging, singing, and relaxing on the worn tiles. We offered to take photos of pilgrims with the church. It was interesting to share that moment and discuss the pilgrimage and what it meant to them. Shells are official markers of the Camino paths and guide pilgrims to Santiago. The stone with the shell in the lower center picture is in the middle of the plaza and is the official end of the Camino.

On the Roof

We explored the cathedral, town, and its history; there is a lot to see. We also attended the beautiful pilgrim’s mass. One of the interesting experiences was a roof top and tower tour. In the picture on the far right, Diane is standing next to a place on the roof where they used to burn the pilgrim’s clothes. In past centuries the pilgrims would arrive dirty, sometimes sick, and in tatters. Charities would provide them new clothes and then burn the old clothes on the rooftop as one of the ceremonies upon completion of the Camino (and to maintain the hygiene of the church and community).

The Journey Continues

We were glad that we crossed into Spain to see Santiago de Compostela (and eat some real Spanish tapas), but it was time to head back to Portugal. Our next stop was in the northwest corner at Parque Nacional Peneda-Gerês for a bit of hiking in the mountains.