"Our" Pilgrimage to Santiago

Yesterday we docked in La Coruna, Spain and drove 45 minutes to Santiago where we toured the main square and the cathedral. This is considered to be one of the most holy sites in the world with thousands making the pilgrimage each year to visit. In order to be considered a “pilgrim,” visitors must walk at least the last 100 kilometers. Many walk much farther. Of course Jay and I took a bus! The cathedral was like nothing we’d ever seen. Construction began in 1075. The detail was beyond amazing. We learned quite a lot about the traditions of the church. We also saw the world’s largest incense burner. It was said to have been used for strictly religious purposes, but according to our guide many believed the burning of incense was necessary to mask the scent of the pilgrims who walked hundreds of kilometers in the sun and then slept in the cathedral after their arrival.

In Spain, and particularly the area of Santiago, everyone is very fond of the magical healers found throughout their history. Many seen today resemble our version of the witch and are merchandised everywhere. We saw these “witches” in every store we went into and also on the street (where we just had to get a picture!).