Camino day 22 to Santiago

 

Walking into the plaza facing the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela felt strangely surreal. Thoughts and expectations of what would the Camino be like, would I be strong enough, will I stay well, will I find somewhere to sleep?  How would I feel when I reached Santiago? 

I felt overjoyed in completing the pilgrimage, I was amazed by the Cathedral and the tomb of Saint James, and grateful that the journey had delivered the simplicity of life as a pilgrim that I imagined. 

At the start of the pilgrimage you are provided with your Credencial (pilgrims passport) which allows you to stay in the albergues, and is proof of your journey as you get it stamped at churches, places of interest, cafes and albergues along the way. You are also provided with suggested stages for each day usually 20-30km per day. 

Most pilgrims follow the suggested stages, and many book accommodation a few days ahead, however I preferred to walk a little further most days and stay in “off schedule” villages in the smaller albergues. I found the connections and conversations during these stays were meaningful and insightful. 

I shared happy moments on the journey with many pilgrims, but they were not ongoing interactions, as most people I would only see for a couple of days. 

There was freedom in not sticking to a schedule, but also at the beginning slightly disconcerting not knowing if you had a bed for the night until you arrived in town. I always had the option of checking into a hotel if the albergues were “completo” (no vacancy) so it wasn’t a huge concern for me. 

There is a saying that the Camino does not give you what you want, the Camino gives you what you need.

The nights the albergues were full and I stayed in a hotel was also the night I needed some self care. Luxury.. a room, shower & toilet to myself and the chance to rest, care for my feet and have a later checkout. 

The Camino has given me the appreciation of Simplicity 

 Wake, Walk, Eat, Walk, Wash, Eat, Sleep. 

It has given me time to appreciate history, and time to see beauty in nature as I walked in the footsteps of pilgrims before me. It has made me thankful for kindness and friendship on the journey, and so very grateful for the family and friends I have in my life. 

Early start in darkness, only 27 km to go to Santiago. 

A less grand but no less beautiful village church 

Pilgrims coming into Santiago via wheelchair 

The tomb of Saint James. Located under the main altar. 

The organ opposite the altar is massive

Arrived in time for midday mass. Not in English but the  rhythm of the service, sounds of the organ a choir where beautiful. 

Street parade

Dinner 

Sunday June 11. Km today 27 / total 783

http://catedraldesantiago.es/en/pilgrimage/