What gave me most joy about Santiago de Compostela, was to see all the pilgrims arriving at Praza do Obradoiro in front of the impressive baroque facade of the Cathedral.
So much joy!
Tired…
With hurting feet…
But happy! The 16-year old boy ,to the left, said he was ready to do the same again – starting tomorrow!
And proud to show their stamped ”passport”…
…and diploma. this man had walked the Camino 7 times. Often together with some difficult young boys
Resting…
Changing shoes and going for a stroll in the city
Then every pilgrim must attend the Pilgrim’s Mass. So, let us join the them and enter into the magnificent Cathedral, built for S:t Jakob in 1000-1200 .
The ritual with the Botafumeiro has an interesting history…
…where you can kiss the 13th century statue of S.t Jacob
Beauty in …
…every detail
The Botafumeiro is filled with incense…
…and swinged in every angle over our heads. An old tradition to take away the stench of the many pilgrims…
So, this is the end of the pilgrim adventure for now – But maybe some day…
Leya 
I am hoping so much that I can make it. I also hope to experience the botafumeiro, which isn’t always swung. I just hope I get lucky! 🙂
I hope so too!
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Today I received news from a friend about the peace he found while walking the entire 800km. And your photos help me understand more about this incredible pilgrimage.
I believe there are many good things to come of it.
Quite amazing. I was very surprised to learn what you said in a previous post, namely that the majority of pilgrims are not religious. As an non-religious person, I wouldn’t be so thrilled to stand through a mass at the end of such a long journey or kiss any statues.
Of the pilgrims I talked to the majority were not religious. And I guess only religious people kissed the statue!
Am considering this, it will be a few years before I’d be able to go.
My thinking as well. Unfortunately, now that have the opportunity to do it, my knees are not very good…You never know what might happen to you, but we must have future plans.
Agreed, it is good to have plans, even if they have to be modified over time.
Superbes pictures, oh yes maybe some day 😊
😊
What a spectacular cathedral!
janet
It really is! And filled with pilgrims from many countries, of every age, happy and singing – wonderful.
This is at the very top of my ”bucket list”, the photo are absolutely wonderful.
Charlie, I hope you will do it some day! I am very much wanting to, but I will not be able to do the whole 800 kilometres. A week or two at a slow pace. There are possibiloties to get your heavy backpack transported and only carrying a day pack. Unfortunately my knees are not that good anymore.