Camino Frances 26 May 2024 - Rest day in Santiago de Compostella

 Santiago de Compostela: A City That Never Sleeps

Adapted from Alison's diary entry

We woke up in a city that never sleeps—or at least, that’s what Louise told me. Apparently, the streets were alive all night, a constant hum of energy that I somehow slept through (took my hearing aids out). But today, we’re ready to be part of it. Santiago de Compostela, the jewel at the end of the Camino, is waiting for us to explore.

First things first: the second most important task of the day (after arriving, of course). We headed to the Oficina de Acogida al Peregrino to collect our Compostela certificates. To our delight, there was no queue—we walked straight in. I was number 307 this morning, Louise was 309, and Kim struggled with the QR code system. But eventually, she got her message sorted, and we were all officially certified pilgrims.

With certificates in hand, it was time to lose ourselves in the labyrinth of Santiago’s old town. Every winding street, every hidden alley, seemed to lead back to the cathedral, the heart of this ancient city.

We attended the church service at the Santiago de Compostela Cathedral, entering through the grand southern gate. This architectural masterpiece, completed in 1211, was built over the burial site of St. James. Its Romanesque foundations are adorned with Gothic and Baroque additions, a testament to centuries of devotion and artistry. Standing inside, surrounded by the echoes of history, was a moment I’ll never forget.

The old town itself is a fascinating blend of pre-Christian and pagan influences, with Celtic symbols woven into its fabric. Churches are everywhere—so many that if I lean out our hotel window, I feel like I could almost touch the Iglesia de San Miguel de Agros. At the end of our street stands the imposing Iglesia de San Martin Pinario, its presence a constant reminder of the city’s spiritual heartbeat.

By 4:30 in the afternoon, we were on a mission: churros and chocolate. We wandered the cobblestone streets until we found the perfect spot, indulging in the rich, sweet treat that felt like a reward for our pilgrimage.

Back at the hotel by 6 pm, we decided to call it a day. Churros and chocolate might have been dinner—and honestly, after everything we’ve been through, it felt like a fitting celebration.

Steps:  9,587

Accommodation:  Hotel Gastronomico San Miguel

Kim, Louise & Alison