Exhibition in Fátima inspires new pilgrims on the Camino de Santiago
A new exhibition dedicated to the Camino de Santiago is on display at the Fátima Tourism Office, in the municipality of Ourém, until November 3. Organized by the Espaço Jacobeus Association (AEJ), the exhibit, titled “Don’t just walk the Camino… Let the Camino walk through you” invites visitors on a symbolic journey along the famous pilgrimage route through objects, photographs, and pilgrim stories.
The exhibition showcases the culture and history surrounding the Camino de Santiago, encouraging visitors to reflect on the pilgrimage experience and consider embarking on their own journey. According to Carina Frazão, AEJ delegate in Fátima, the idea is for visitors to follow the famous yellow arrows, just as pilgrims do, discovering a path that never truly ends. “As soon as we finish one Camino, we’re already preparing for the next,” Frazão highlighted during the exhibition’s inauguration on September 21.
Among the displayed items are the staff, gourd, backpack, and credential – elements that are part of AEJ’s collection or were loaned by pilgrims. Visitors can also admire photographs of various Camino routes, images of heritage sites, and symbols associated with the Jacobean pilgrimage. One highlight of the exhibit is the queimada galega pot, used to prepare a traditional Galician drink, symbolizing the cultural richness of the regions along the Camino.
For António Devesa, president of AEJ, this exhibition is more than a presentation of objects: it’s a genuine invitation to prepare for the Camino de Santiago. “Anyone who starts reading the testimonies, viewing the photographs, and observing the heritage on display will gain a better understanding of what the Camino is and whether it aligns with their aspirations,” Devesa stated, emphasizing the event’s inspirational power. He also highlighted the importance of the exhibition’s location in Fátima, a strategic center for pilgrimages. “Now, those coming to Fátima have the opportunity to see this exhibition in the ideal setting,” he added.
Founded in 2004, AEJ has more than 800 members and is dedicated to preserving the ecumenical spirit of the Camino de Santiago, welcoming people from diverse faiths and cultures. In 2006, it was officially recognized by the Archdiocese of Braga and incorporated into the Universal Archconfraternity of the Apostle Santiago, based in Santiago de Compostela.
The exhibition is supported by the Municipality of Ourém and Tourism of Central Portugal. Isabel Costa, vice president of the municipality, emphasized the initiative’s significance, noting that “many times, the idea that people already know what the Camino de Santiago is doesn’t correspond to reality.” Costa admitted that she was unaware of the Camino’s impact on the municipality of Ourém but assured that the municipality would become more actively involved in its promotion.
Meanwhile, Carlos Figueiredo, director of the Tourism Information Unit of Tourism of Central Portugal, described the exhibition as “a fantastic showcase that needs to be publicized, not only for its quality but also for its potential to bring people together and share knowledge.”
The exhibition “Don’t just walk the Camino… Let the Camino walk through you” is free and open to the public Monday through Friday, from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM and from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM. On Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays, it is open from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM and from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM.
More information at museu@cm.ourem.pt | 919 585 003 | 249 540 900 (EXT. 6831)
Source: Diário do Distrito
