Modern pilgrims who want to fully experience the Camino stay in a network of basically equipped Albergues or hostels strung along the route. These may be privately owned, but many are run by religious organisations and staffed by volunteers or Hospitaleros who look after the Albergues and the needs of the pilgrims. Some albergues charge a small fee and others are free and request a small donation or donativo.
Pilgrims carry a Pilgrim Passport or Credencial which they have either obtained at the Pilgrim Office in St Jean Pied De Port or from their national Confraternity of St James. This entitles them to stay at the Albergues and also avail of pilgrim menus in restaurants in the towns they visit. Along the route pilgrims have their Credencial stamped with a sello and this acts as proof that they have completed the pilgrimage when they reach Santiago where they can obtain a Compostela or certificate from the Pilgrim Office. The colourfully stamped Credencial also provides a unique momento of their journey and many have it framed alongside their Compostela. To qualify for a Compostela at Santiago, pilgrims must have walked a minimum of 100km from the town of Sarria.
 |
| My Credencial |
No comments:
Post a Comment