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Camino Portuguese Wednesday 13/05/2026 Santiago de Compostella

Wednesday 13/05/2026

Today was all about Santiago. We decided to attend the early 7:30 AM Mass at the cathedral and had the opportunity explore the cathedral before the crowds arrived. Best decision we could have made.

We had the rare chance to go down into the crypt and visit the tomb of St. James, and I was completely overcome. The tears just came—I couldn’t hold them back. The last time we were here, the line stretched around the main altar with an estimated wait of over an hour. Today, there were only about 50 people. At the midday service, you can’t even find a seat unless you arrive more than an hour early, and you certainly can’t wander the cathedral.

After such an emotional morning, we went back to the hotel for a late breakfast, then spent the rest of the day strolling around town, picking up souvenirs.

We had lunch at the bar behind the cathedral where they were setting up for the evenings concert. They were testing the sound system, so we were entertained by the music and a few musicians. It was a lovely meal of paella, salad (except for the unwanted tuna) and patatas bravas (fried potato gems). And honestly? That was plenty.

A beautifully lazy day in Santiago.
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