Compostela
Pilgrims who arrive in Santiago de Compostela having walked or rode horseback at least the last 100km, or cycled the last 200km, are eligible for a certificate called the Compostela. This is handed out at the Pilgrim's Office in Santiago. Pilgrims normally present their Credencial/pilgrim's_passport, and the stamps in that provide the evidence for meeting the conditions. The definition of a pilgrim is one who has made the journey pietatis causa, that is to say, for pious/religious/spiritual reasons. Those who have made the journey for other reasons - tourism, sport - can obtain a different certificate.
The Latin wording on the "Compostela" translates as follows:-
The Chapter of this Holy Apostolic Metropolitan Cathedral of St James, custodian of the seal of St. James' Altar, to all faithful and pilgrims who come from everywhere over the world as an act of devotion, under vow or promise to the Apostle's Tomb, our Patron and Protector of Spain, witnesses in the sight of all who read this document, that:
Mr. (latin version of your name)...... has visited devoutly this Sacred Church in a religious sense (Pietatis causa)
Witness whereof I hand this document over to him, authenticated by the seal of this Sacred Church.
Given in St. James of Compostela on the (day)..................... (month)................................... A.D.........................................
Chapter Secretary
See also
- 100km qualifier page lists places which constitute the minimum 100km walking distance
- Archdiocesan site page on compostela
- pilgrim statistics
