THE NEW NORMAL

The Camino de Santiago goes back, since July 1st, to a ‘new normal’. This is the date when the Cathedral of Santiago has reopened its doors, as well as the Pilgrim’s Reception Office (where pilgrims can obtain the Compostela) and most albergues, both public and private, which are now ready to welcome back pilgrims.

After a couple of months in which the state of alarm set because of Covid-19 led to the closure of the Camino, pilgrims can now go back to the different Routes (Camino Francés, Camino Portugués, Camino Inglés, Primitivo, del Norte…) that lead to Santiago de Compostela, with all the safety measures planned by the institutions, associations and businesses related to the jacobean world.

Here we summarize in a few points how this ‘new normal’ will affect the Camino de Santiago so you can get organised to walk it this summer:

1. Booking at albergues on the Camino

One of the changes derived from this ‘new normal’ after Covid-19 is the recommendation to book ahead a place at albergues or other types of accommodation to spend the night on the Camino. That will ensure that the pilgrims finds available spots and open accommodation. This year part of the accommodation along the Camino may not be open, and most will have a bed limit, so it’s absolutely necessary to book  beforehand. It should be noted that only 50% of the spots will be available compared to what they have offered other years, since they have had to adapt to the new security and hygiene rules: limiting space, equipment, public spaces… According to the Consellería, pilgrims will now be able to book a reservation from the day before to 1pm. of the same day. From then, if there are remaining spots, they will be available for pilgrims who arrive without reservation.

2. Visits to the Cathedral of Santiago

From July 1st visiting the Cathedral of Santiago will be allowed, with a limit of 200 people at a time and following a predetermined direction one-way-only without hugging the Apostle. Visits can take place from 9 am to 7 pm, last access being at 6.45 pm.

Monday through Friday access to the Cathedral will be through Platerías, and during the weekend through the plaza de la Inmaculada. Since restoration work is being done inside the Cathedral, the Apostle’s tomb can be worshiped but the “camarín” will be closed. Other safety measures imply the compulsory use of masks, keeping the safety distance and the disposition of hydroalcoholic gel available for visitors.

Visits to the Pórtico de la Gloria can be done Tuesday through Sunday from 10.30 am to 2.30 pm and booking ahead will be required.

3. Pilgrim’s mass

Due to the restoration work being done inside the Cathedral, the pilgrim’s mass with take place at 12.00 pm. on the Chapel of the Pilgrim’s Reception Office on Rúa Carretas and at 7 pm. at a provisional altar placed on the west wing of the Cathedral, which can be accessed through Platerías. There will be a limit of 75 people allowed and they will have to pick a number when entering.

4. Obtaining the Compostela

The Pilgrim’s Recepción Office, the place in Rúa Carretas where the Compostela is obtained, will be open from 10.30 am to 6.30 pm. During that time pilgrims can visit the centre and request the Compostela after certifying finishing the Camino by showing the Credential. You can also find our post office at the Pilgrim’s Office where you can send your bicycles, suitcases, etc. or buy stamps, cards and souvenirs.

An article by CaminoConCorreos.
Highly recommended by HOSTAL GAU TXORI: comfortable accommodation, nice and traditional food and a wonderful natural landscapes as you pass by Zubiri.
PS- we take all the security and hygiene measures to face the covid 19.