August ends with the 50,000th pilgrim passing through Vigo, and the Coastal Route is about to reach a new historic milestone: more than 45,000 pilgrims have walked this route, which is known for being the most international and the one that grew the most in 2023. This increase in popularity has primarily been driven by women, who represent the majority of walkers on this route. This impressive number confirms that the previous record is about to be surpassed: in 2023, 52,000 pilgrims used the Portuguese Coastal Route, and predictions for 2024 suggest that, with September and October –...

The Camino de Santiago is not just a route of spiritual pilgrimage, but also a place filled with legends and myths that have fascinated pilgrims for centuries. These stories, often intertwined with historical facts, enrich the experience of those who walk this ancient path and add a touch of mystery to the journey. One of the best-known legends is the “Miracle of the Hen” in Santo Domingo de la Calzada. According to tradition, a young French pilgrim was falsely accused of theft and hanged in the town. The young man’s mother, desperate, prayed to Santo Domingo, asking for her son’s life to be...

In recent years, the Camino de Santiago has been adopting sustainable tourism practices in response to the growing number of pilgrims and the need to protect the environment while supporting local communities. Sustainable tourism refers to practices that aim to balance environmental conservation, economic development, and cultural preservation, ensuring that tourism benefits the environment and communities without compromising the ability of future generations to enjoy the same resources. Along the route, many albergues and small accommodations have invested in sustainable practices such as...

As technology advances, the Camino de Santiago has incorporated new solutions to enhance the pilgrim experience, making the journey safer, more accessible, and enriching. These innovations are transforming the way pilgrims plan and experience their pilgrimage, from digital navigation tools to new technologies ensuring their safety and well-being. One of the most notable innovations is the use of mobile applications that assist with navigation and communication along the Camino. Apps such as “Wise Pilgrim Guide” provide detailed maps, information about albergues, restaurants, and...

On the Central Route, between Águeda and Albergaria-a-Velha, lies the historic Vouga Bridge, also known as the Old Vouga Bridge. This ancient crossing, built in the early 13th century and renovated over the centuries, played a vital role in the royal road that connected Lisbon to Porto. The bridge, which spans the Vouga River and flows into the Ria de Aveiro, has undergone several interventions throughout its history. During the reign of King John III in the 18th century, its arches were expanded to 15, and later, during the reign of Queen Mary I, the structure was reinforced again due to the...

• The contest aims to highlight the values of the Camino de Santiago through photography, covering aspects such as its environment, appearance, and its philosophical, social, or religious significance. Photos must relate to the Camino and its context. • Participation is free and open to all adults, except for board members, their families, and professionals involved in Camino-related activities. • Each participant may submit up to three original photos, in color or black-and-white, in “JPG” format with a minimum resolution of 12 megapixels (12 Mpx) and 200 dpi. Photos must not have...

On May 11, 2024, the Via Lusitana Pilgrim Association inaugurated a new Pilgrim Information Center at the Church of Conceição Velha in Lisboa. This center aims to provide detailed and personalized support to all pilgrims traveling the Camino de Santiago de Compostela or the Camino de Fátima. In addition to offering maps, guides, and practical route information, the center stands out for its direct support to travelers visiting the site. This includes guidance on journey planning, such as selecting the best itinerary, accommodation options, and points of interest along the routes. For those...