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The new and cleaned up Cathedral

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ivar

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Added July 12th:
I just realised that the photos from Instagram might now show if you are not on Instagram... here are the same photos uploaded to the forum:
full

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full


On Instagram...
 
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€2,-/day will present your project to thousands of visitors each day. All interested in the Camino de Santiago.
We've returned every year since 2013, and will be again in August. I must admit my heart sank a little when I first seen the scaffolding (think it was in August 2014) but was just glad that we had the memory without in 2013. Already looking forward to the fresh face....
 
New Original Camino Gear Designed Especially with The Modern Peregrino In Mind!
Join our full-service guided tour and let us convert you into a Pampered Pilgrim!
Down bag (90/10 duvet) of 700 fills with 180 g (6.34 ounces) of filling. Mummy-shaped structure, ideal when you are looking for lightness with great heating performance.

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€2,-/day will present your project to thousands of visitors each day. All interested in the Camino de Santiago.
What is the latest word on the interior renovation schedule, and the parts of the cathedral that will be restricted from visits?
 
What a sight, in 5 visits we have not seen the real cathedral before. Thank you
 
The one from Galicia (the round) and the one from Castilla & Leon. Individually numbered and made by the same people that make the ones you see on your walk.
I miss the ferns...

Was starting to thing I was the only one. I know the restoration had to be done to protect the fabric of the building but I really liked the feeing of timelessness all the vegetation gave the cathedral.
 
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Was starting to thing I was the only one. I know the restoration had to be done to protect the fabric of the building but I really liked the feeing of timeless all the vegetation gave the cathedral.

So true! The cathedral in 2012 before the restoration work started:

DSCN1640b.jpg

Jill
 
Technical backpack for day trips with backpack cover and internal compartment for the hydration bladder. Ideal daypack for excursions where we need a medium capacity backpack. The back with Air Flow System creates large air channels that will keep our back as cool as possible.

€83,-
I was there after completing caminos in 2015 and 2017. It was fantastic but it had all the scaffolding attached .I can't wait to see it again (God willing ) in its natural state with all the work scaffolding removed this year around October 2018.
 
Added July 12th:
I just realised that the photos from Instagram might now show if you are not on Instagram... here are the same photos uploaded to the forum:
full

--
full


On Instagram...
I’m so excited to see her without the scaffolding that was in place when I made my first Camino. I’m on my second Camino now. I’ll arrive in about 3 weeks. I can’t wait.

Ivar- I recall some question of whether the botafumiero will still be in use inside the Cathedral now because of work being done on it. Do you have any updates?

Thank you for all you do for us,

Sandi
 
A selection of Camino Jewellery
Now the inside!
I will be there at the end of September and have been trying to find out what the state of the inside will be. I know at some point pilgrims masses will be held at another location. Does anyone know what the interior renovation schedule looks like?
 
Arriving last Sept, it was all hidden and encrusted with scaffolding. I will be walking again, this time from Porto in October, and so looking forward to being met by the cathedral's smiling face.
 
St James' Way - Self-guided 4-7 day Walking Packages, Reading to Southampton, 110 kms
I am curious, can you get in through the front doors and enter through the Portico de Gloria, once again, as I did in 1989? Or do we still have to walk around to the side entrance I used in 2016?

(I am resigned to the fact that I will never again be able to lay my hand on the pillar in the Portico, as I did in 1989.)
 
(I am resigned to the fact that I will never again be able to lay my hand on the pillar in the Portico, as I did in 1989.)
I have missed having the opportunity to do that again on my more recent Caminos. A very tangible link with so many millions who passed through that doorway before us. Somehow entering through a side door just doesn't have the same dramatic appeal. Perhaps it is a salutory lesson in humility...
 
A selection of Camino Jewellery
Looks great !

Just out of curiosity, does anyone know when the last time was that it was cleaned? (if ever!!!)
 
I see you did st Cuthberts 20 years ago. My sis and I are thinking we may do it next year. I'd like to hear your thoughts on that hike.
Wow, thanks for reminding me @Letsgocamino I forgot it was 20 years ago, how time flies.
It was a lovely hike from memory, through some lovely countryside, particularly around the ruined Abbeys and over the Cheviot hills. My overriding memory though was walking barefoot at low tide through the North Sea over to Lindesfarne Holy Island. Very chilly.
 
The one from Galicia (the round) and the one from Castilla & Leon. Individually numbered and made by the same people that make the ones you see on your walk.
Down bag (90/10 duvet) of 700 fills with 180 g (6.34 ounces) of filling. Mummy-shaped structure, ideal when you are looking for lightness with great heating performance.

€149,-
Is the Tree of Jesse still protected … having been 5 times since 2012 my first Camino I am really looking forward to seeing you and John next year when I finish the VDLP
 
FB_IMG_1474937303747.jpg

This picture was from our first Camino and arrival in Santiago in April 2014. We have been back to Santiago in 2016 and 2017 after other Camino's.
Excited to see the cathedral again late September after our Camino Primitivo.
 
The pictures are amazing. I am definitely going to have walk again so I can see it in all it's glory. Thank you for the photos.
 
€2,-/day will present your project to thousands of visitors each day. All interested in the Camino de Santiago.
Hhmm. I actually ended my first Camino in November last year. I knew nothing about any Cathedral restoration until I got there. After 800km nothing was going to stop me. This is a copy of a section of my blog at the time. "The final thing, and for a pilgrim a very special thing, is to place your hand on the column in the portico where the big statue of St. James is. Millions of pilgrims have done this over the centuries and there are grooves in the stonework where those millions of fingers have rested. Sadly, restoration work is currently being carried out on the Cathedral and the entire front section of it is all locked away behind security boarding and scaffolding. These works are not due to be completed for another 4 years so pilgrims will not get access for a very long time and just have to live with it. However, those that know me well, know that to me, these are just obstacles to be overcome. My first furtive attempt at gaining access failed dismally as I got lost in amongst all the scaffolding and plastic sheeting before the sound of workers voices approaching made me do a runner. What I had found though, was an access door into that section that the builders clearly thought was secure. So, right at the end of one service, whilst the workers were still sitting around waiting for the all clear to carry on, I made my second attempt. Within 5 minutes of being undisturbed, working my way through a maze of scaffolding and protective boarding and plastic sheeting, I found it. There he was, and there was the column and hand position just waiting for me to place mine. I was one happy (if slightly naughty) pilgrim."
20171107_125138.jpg
 
Thank you for sharing Ivar. What a beauty! Wish it would have seen it this way in April... Well, well... I guess I will have to walk again next year!:D
 
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Gorgeous! I was in Santiago on a Spanish course in 1995 before scaffolding so was quite shocked when I completed my first Camino in 2016. I am looking forward to seeing the beautiful cathedral all cleaned up on my next Camino this September. Thank you Ivan for sharing those photos.
 
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What a sight, in 5 visits we have not seen the real cathedral before. Thank you
Two visits and this is new to me. These pictures encourage me to focus on Camino #3!!!
 
Thanks Ivar, it look fabulous. When I finished my Camino in November 2017, I had no idea it was being refurbished so was surprised and a little disappointed to walk into the square (in the rain) and see it covered in scaffold. Does that mean I'll have to do another Camino.....hmmm???
 
A selection of Camino Jewellery
I was one happy (if slightly naughty) pilgrim."
:eek:
And you are proud of yourself??
Words fail me.
There are reasons to keep people away.
Please understand, if you can, that the selfish actions of one 'pilgrim,' if multiplied by 300,000 per year can seriously harm what authorities are trying to protect.

Sorry...back on topic.
Thank you Ivar. Indeed. The cathedral IS soooo gorgeous now!
20180703_192057.jpg
 
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Thank you so much for the photos Ivar. Can't wait to see it myself at the end of Aug.
 
Hhmm. I actually ended my first Camino in November last year. I knew nothing about any Cathedral restoration until I got there. After 800km nothing was going to stop me. This is a copy of a section of my blog at the time. "The final thing, and for a pilgrim a very special thing, is to place your hand on the column in the portico where the big statue of St. James is. Millions of pilgrims have done this over the centuries and there are grooves in the stonework where those millions of fingers have rested. Sadly, restoration work is currently being carried out on the Cathedral and the entire front section of it is all locked away behind security boarding and scaffolding. These works are not due to be completed for another 4 years so pilgrims will not get access for a very long time and just have to live with it. However, those that know me well, know that to me, these are just obstacles to be overcome. My first furtive attempt at gaining access failed dismally as I got lost in amongst all the scaffolding and plastic sheeting before the sound of workers voices approaching made me do a runner. What I had found though, was an access door into that section that the builders clearly thought was secure. So, right at the end of one service, whilst the workers were still sitting around waiting for the all clear to carry on, I made my second attempt. Within 5 minutes of being undisturbed, working my way through a maze of scaffolding and protective boarding and plastic sheeting, I found it. There he was, and there was the column and hand position just waiting for me to place mine. I was one happy (if slightly naughty) pilgrim."
View attachment 44543

Sorry but this kind of action really infuriates me! Imho you are not "slightly naughty" but very inconsiderate towards the cathedral, the Church as an institution and also towards the construction workers there. These men and women should not need to worry about a pilgrim with a sense of wrong entitlement to interfere with their work.
I really need an emoticon here " shakes head in bewilderment".

But indeed back to the topic : the restoration is gorgeous and I hope to see it in the autumn.
 
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I know the botafumeiro has been swinging the last few weeks, so I don't thing that is a problem now..
I plan to be in Santiago on July 20th. Will I be able to see the botafumeiro swing?
 
Sorry but this kind of action really infuriates me! Imho you are not "slightly naughty" but very inconsiderate towards the cathedral, the Church as an institution and also towards the construction workers there. These men and women should not need to worry about a pilgrim with a sense of wrong entitlement to interfere with their work.
I really need an emoticon here " shakes head in bewilderment".

But indeed back to the topic : the restoration is gorgeous and I hope to see it in the autumn.

Both @VNwalking and @SabineP hit the nail on the head in their reactions to @Jane Farmer 's post. It would appear that she is quite proud of herself:oops:, why is beyond me. As if walking 800 km entitles anyone to anything. Maybe it was just something to check off a bucket list. Camino: check. Hand on pillar portico: check.
 
St James' Way - Self-guided 4-7 day Walking Packages, Reading to Southampton, 110 kms
Both @VNwalking and @SabineP hit the nail on the head in their reactions to @Jane Farmer 's post. It would appear that she is quite proud of herself:oops:, why is beyond me. As if walking 800 km entitles anyone to anything. Maybe it was just something to check off a bucket list. Camino: check. Hand on pillar portico: check.
It is rare that someone shows such disrespect as @JaneFarmer does and brags about it publicly. Where to start ...
 
Beautiful! When I arrived Oct ‘13 the scaffolding had just started. I’ve watched it creep across the face on two succeeding Camino (even finally managed the rooftop tour last spring). So this October I can’t wait to see it again. I’ll have a new picture for my home page. But then again I liked the vegetation too!
 

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Technical backpack for day trips with backpack cover and internal compartment for the hydration bladder. Ideal daypack for excursions where we need a medium capacity backpack. The back with Air Flow System creates large air channels that will keep our back as cool as possible.

€83,-
I am curious, can you get in through the front doors and enter through the Portico de Gloria, once again, as I did in 1989? Or do we still have to walk around to the side entrance I used in 2016?
For the time being, as of 27 July 2018, visits of the Portico de la Gloria will be possible for groups of maximum 25 persons with a duration of 15 minutes per visit. This will change in autumn 2018, when the portal will be encapsulated (to protect it from restoration works elsewhere in the Cathedral if I understand correctly) but it's not clear to me how the visits will be organised then and what this encapsulation entails.
See http://catedraldesantiago.es/programa-de-visitas-al-portico-de-la-gloria/

(I am resigned to the fact that I will never again be able to lay my hand on the pillar in the Portico, as I did in 1989.)

I truly sympathise. However, the more I think about it - and having recently seen the damage that many hands can cause over time in a different statue elsewhere and that I, too, had touched in 1980 - the more I hope that the Cathedral will not give in to any pressure from tourism and keep everyone away from touching anything. Several years ago, they expressed this opinion (Google translate): "The Cathedral spokesperson stated that the Cathedral does not approve of the ritual of putting fingers on the stone or headbanging, because it is an empty ritual, it is meaningless and out of place in the 21st century, a minor pleasure compared to the evil that is done to our heritage, something that is protected everywhere without anyone complaining". In addition, "it is sad to see people, who do not know what they are doing, they put their hands in there and they do not even look at what is around them, the great beauty of the Portal. The Cathedral hopes that a new habit will be established among visitors: "To look up and to value and admire. The Portal is a jewel." That was in 2008, ten years ago.
 
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As if walking 800 km entitles anyone to anything. Maybe it was just something to check off a bucket list. Camino: check. Hand on pillar portico: check.
Don't forget to tick off the 'share it on the blog'
It is rare that someone shows such disrespect as @JaneFarmer does and brags about it publicly. Where to start ...
Indeed.
Unfortunately, in the look-at-me world of blog-land, it is probably more common than we know. But I'm not going there to find out.
 
The one from Galicia (the round) and the one from Castilla & Leon. Individually numbered and made by the same people that make the ones you see on your walk.
The cathedral looks breath-taking.

I was disappointed this spring when injury slowed me down and I didn't make it to Santiago. But St. James provides! I will be back in October. And now I'll get to see the Cathedral cleaned up and scaffold free. (At least on the outside. ;))
 
:eek:
And you are proud of yourself??
Words fail me.
There are reasons to keep people away.
Please understand, if you can, that the selfish actions of one 'pilgrim,' if multiplied by 300,000 per year can seriously harm what authorities are trying to protect.

Sorry...back on topic.
Thank you Ivar. Indeed. The cathedral IS soooo gorgeous now!
View attachment 44556
Thankyou for your reply Vnwalking. I really do understand the selfishness bit. I also totally get the 300,000 thinking.
I was so in awe (and respect) of the whole experience that is was very important to me. If I did make a mistake then it was probably talking about it and opening myself up to attack by those that don't understand.
Take care.
 
fabulous photos - i came in April and hope to go back. Does anyone know when interior restoration will commence and how long it will prevent the botafumeiro from swinging?
 
St James' Way - Self-guided 4-7 day Walking Packages, Reading to Southampton, 110 kms
Hello
Thankyou you all for your replies.
One thing I don't have is some kind of tick box list as those that know me will testify. If some of you are fixated on that, then each to their own.
As for respect, again you couldn't be more wrong. I have more respect than you can ever imagine. It meant so much to me and I wasn't sure I would have the chance again. I won't criticise any of you for thinking that as I am only too aware that you have no knowledge of my Camino and what happened to me on the way...you are just swinging out wildly.
If I have made a mistake, it has to be in posting it here. I guess I didn't realise how people would judge so quickly without knowing anything, and that post on its own did not help.
Although not pleased to see them, I suppose I should expect remarks like those. The world is full of critics and forums have their share of views on things that can be delivered brutally and without respect or thought.
My Camino was a wonderful thing and so totally spiritually uplifting. I met some wonderful people and made friends that will be lifelong.
I am sorry, but you cannot spoil it for me. I wish you all well on you walks.
Buen Camino
Jane.

Thankyou for the wonderful pictures. The Cathedral is looking truly amazing.
 
@Jane Farmer : ok.Let me make a comparison.
You own a house and a lovely garden full of flowers and fruittrees. You ask a contractor to do some major work on the house.
The contractor posts signs up for safety reasons.
How would you react if X-amount of passers-by would ignore the signs and find a way to your garden?
And then pick all your lovely flowers and steal all the fruit.
Just because they feel entitled?

Btw respect always goes both ways.
 
@Jane Farmer : ok.Let me make a comparison.
You own a house and a lovely garden full of flowers and fruittrees. You ask a contractor to do some major work on the house.
The contractor posts signs up for safety reasons.
How would you react if X-amount of passers-by would ignore the signs and find a way to your garden?
And then pick all your lovely flowers and steal all the fruit.
Just because they feel entitled?

Btw respect always goes both ways.
It certainly does Sabine.
 
The 2024 Camino guides will be coming out little by little. Here is a collection of the ones that are out so far.
Thank you it looks fantastic can'wait to see it again
 
Hhmm. I actually ended my first Camino in November last year. I knew nothing about any Cathedral restoration until I got there. After 800km nothing was going to stop me. This is a copy of a section of my blog at the time. "The final thing, and for a pilgrim a very special thing, is to place your hand on the column in the portico where the big statue of St. James is. Millions of pilgrims have done this over the centuries and there are grooves in the stonework where those millions of fingers have rested. Sadly, restoration work is currently being carried out on the Cathedral and the entire front section of it is all locked away behind security boarding and scaffolding. These works are not due to be completed for another 4 years so pilgrims will not get access for a very long time and just have to live with it. However, those that know me well, know that to me, these are just obstacles to be overcome. My first furtive attempt at gaining access failed dismally as I got lost in amongst all the scaffolding and plastic sheeting before the sound of workers voices approaching made me do a runner. What I had found though, was an access door into that section that the builders clearly thought was secure. So, right at the end of one service, whilst the workers were still sitting around waiting for the all clear to carry on, I made my second attempt. Within 5 minutes of being undisturbed, working my way through a maze of scaffolding and protective boarding and plastic sheeting, I found it. There he was, and there was the column and hand position just waiting for me to place mine. I was one happy (if slightly naughty) pilgrim."

How fantastic. We never knew it existed. You were obviously very determined, and it clearly meant a lot to you well done. We got to do everything else though so we were happy with our Camino conclusion.
View attachment 44543
 
A selection of Camino Jewellery
The renovations and cleaning of this wonderful cathedrals can cause a high degree of consternation among different groups of people. I was recently asked to serve as a trustee for American Friends of Chartres, an American nonprofit, raising funds to renovate the stained glass windows of Notre Dame de Chartres. Though our focus is strictly on the stained glass, the entire cathedral is going through a renovation.
Though some appreciate the perfectly clean walls, columns, ceilings, and artwork, etc., others do not. People forget that these sacred spaces have existed for hundreds and hundreds of years. Throughout their history, they have been cleaned/renovated multiple times with varying degrees of success. Not only does all the smoke from candles stain the walls and ceilings, but even the breath of each individual has visited or worshiped left a "mark".
Come, visit these prized spaces of holiness and monuments of paramount cultural significance. Treat them as a gift that you seek to give to future generations. Further, if you are financially able, donate to their respective funds to care for them.
Buen Camino
 
The focus is on reducing the risk of failure through being well prepared. 2nd ed.
That is the most ridiculous comparison imaginable. Steel things? lol. I don't know what country you are from but you need to think about the words you use before commenting.

SabineP's analogy is pretty spot on. Knowingly violating carefully considered rules that are in place to protect something of cultural importance is theft of its well being.

As to your admonition that SabineP needs to think about her words, that is a rather strange comment from one who's thinking is so skewed toward self-centeredness that rather than a careful reconsideration and reflection on a clearly defined wrongful action, you continue an attempt to paint those who have objected to your inappropriate action as intolerant, judgemental and in the wrong. The logical conclusion to be drawn about such an attitude is that you believe that it is our judgement which is flawed, and that the Cathedral's rule which you violated is frivolous, and that everyone should be allowed to do what you did regardless of harm.
 
Sadly, all your judgements are so totally wrong they are laughable.
All I experience here is the toxic side of people who sit in judgement.
Fortunately you can't unload all your issues on me because I have more Camino friends and support than you could even dream of. I feel sorry for you. As one friend says, 'ignore all the temple guards and keyboard warriors'. They are ten a penny.
I will now leave this toxic place to its own misery and block the group from here. I hope you learn something from a Camino one day. Goodbye.

Judgement is not a bad thing in and of itself; it is the context in which judgement is applied that counts. You have made a judgement about this group, for example, and decided on a course of action. A toddler makes a judgement about the desirability of a mother's hug, the carpenter uses judgement to decide on the type of lumber most appropriate for a project, and a history teacher about what lesson plan will work well for a unit on early settlements of a nation.

Judgement is also something which keeps us safe and provides for those in need. Judgement allows us to coexist with others, and to make decisions which keep us healthy. Judgement is a good thing when properly applied.

The lack of judgement can produce negative consequences to the individual and to society at large. It can be responsible for graffiti and graft, for pollution and destruction, for the accidental taking of life and for the irreversible damage of ages old historical relics and monuments of man's creativity and ingenuity and artistry.

I do not judge you; it is an impossibility for me to see into one's heart or soul. But I am able to judge actions and to decide whether an action is good or bad or somewhere in between. You have made a judgement about this group. So have I. My judgement is that this forum contains some of the most caring, sensitive, helpful, and loving individuals that I have ever experienced in social media.
 
The one from Galicia (the round) and the one from Castilla & Leon. Individually numbered and made by the same people that make the ones you see on your walk.
I first discovered the Forum in 2014, when I was planning to walk from Avila to Santiago (August 2015). I found it to be a source of information and guidance that gave me the courage and wherewithall to make a solo journey of a kind I had never done before. On my return to the States I continued to log in fairly regularly, perhaps unwilling to let go of such a graced experience as my walk in Spain had been. Then last year, I made another pilgrimage, this time starting on the Frances, then switching to the Invierno for another solo camino when my hiking partner (who chose the Frances) was forced to abandon her attempt due to injury. Another graced experience. Since my return, only rarely have I had the time to visit the Forum and reflect on what fine people Ivar has attracted to it. But every once in awhile, when I really need a certain kind of spiritual renewal, I check in. Today was one such day, and I found these magnificent photos of the cathedral, which drew my heart to yearn for another walk in Spain. I just want to say "Thank you," to Ivar, and to all who contribute so thoughtfully to the various threads on the Forum. You renew my faith in the goodness of human nature, and confirm my efforts to be the best person I can be. Thank you, all.
 
Hhmm. I actually ended my first Camino in November last year. I knew nothing about any Cathedral restoration until I got there. After 800km nothing was going to stop me. This is a copy of a section of my blog at the time. "The final thing, and for a pilgrim a very special thing, is to place your hand on the column in the portico where the big statue of St. James is. Millions of pilgrims have done this over the centuries and there are grooves in the stonework where those millions of fingers have rested. Sadly, restoration work is currently being carried out on the Cathedral and the entire front section of it is all locked away behind security boarding and scaffolding. These works are not due to be completed for another 4 years so pilgrims will not get access for a very long time and just have to live with it. However, those that know me well, know that to me, these are just obstacles to be overcome. My first furtive attempt at gaining access failed dismally as I got lost in amongst all the scaffolding and plastic sheeting before the sound of workers voices approaching made me do a runner. What I had found though, was an access door into that section that the builders clearly thought was secure. So, right at the end of one service, whilst the workers were still sitting around waiting for the all clear to carry on, I made my second attempt. Within 5 minutes of being undisturbed, working my way through a maze of scaffolding and protective boarding and plastic sheeting, I found it. There he was, and there was the column and hand position just waiting for me to place mine. I was one happy (if slightly naughty) pilgrim."
View attachment 44543
Sorry , you have no respect what so ever .
Peter.
 
Very light, comfortable and compressible poncho. Specially designed for protection against water for any activity.

Our Atmospheric H30 poncho offers lightness and waterproofness. Easily compressible and made with our Waterproof fabric, its heat-sealed interior seams guarantee its waterproofness. Includes carrying bag.

€60,-
Today was one such day, and I found these magnificent photos of the cathedral, which drew my heart to yearn for another walk in Spain. I just want to say "Thank you," to Ivar, and to all who contribute so thoughtfully to the various threads on the Forum. You renew my faith in the goodness of human nature, and confirm my efforts to be the best person I can be. Thank you, all.
Ah grace: when we get what we need exactly when we need it. Thank you for this lovely post, @Pray'nwalk .
And yes...aren't @Ivar's photos gorgeous?

@Ivar or anyone in Santiago...pretty please...are any pics possible of the Portico de la Gloria, now that it's open?
 
Back on topic, the staircase appears to be open with a guard in the plaza controlling traffic. Does anyone know what is open now around the Portico de Gloria?
 
Hello
Thankyou you all for your replies.
One thing I don't have is some kind of tick box list as those that know me will testify. If some of you are fixated on that, then each to their own.
As for respect, again you couldn't be more wrong. I have more respect than you can ever imagine. It meant so much to me and I wasn't sure I would have the chance again. I won't criticise any of you for thinking that as I am only too aware that you have no knowledge of my Camino and what happened to me on the way...you are just swinging out wildly.
If I have made a mistake, it has to be in posting it here. I guess I didn't realise how people would judge so quickly without knowing anything, and that post on its own did not help.
Although not pleased to see them, I suppose I should expect remarks like those. The world is full of critics and forums have their share of views on things that can be delivered brutally and without respect or thought.
My Camino was a wonderful thing and so totally spiritually uplifting. I met some wonderful people and made friends that will be lifelong.
I am sorry, but you cannot spoil it for me. I wish you all well on you walks.
Buen Camino
Jane.

Thankyou for the wonderful pictures. The Cathedral is looking truly amazing.
Sorry but you still don't get it .:(
 
Get a spanish phone number with Airalo. eSim, so no physical SIM card. Easy to use app to add more funds if needed.
Back on topic, the staircase appears to be open with a guard in the plaza controlling traffic. Does anyone know what is open now around the Portico de Gloria?

Looks like a very extensive and detailed visiting program. Until autumn of 2019, there will be small groups of no more than 25 at a time, who enter through the cathedral front doors (which will otherwise be closed to traffic???). These visits are free, no reservations possible. There will be a short video first, then the group will have up to 15 minutes to visit. Sounds like the way they regulate people for the Last Supper in Milan.

In autum, definitive guidelines will be established based on the experience of these months, I assume.
Lots of detail here: http://catedraldesantiago.es/programa-de-visitas-al-portico-de-la-gloria/
 
Back on topic, the staircase appears to be open with a guard in the plaza controlling traffic. Does anyone know what is open now around the Portico de Gloria?

A local newspaper report today of queues of two hours+ to join the tours of the Portico. The people quoted seem to think that the visit was well worth while. Tours will be available up until September 20 when further preservation work begins.

https://www.lavanguardia.com/local/...e-la-gloria-con-la-policromia-recuperada.html
 
Ah grace: when we get what we need exactly when we need it. Thank you for this lovely post, @Pray'nwalk .
And yes...aren't @Ivar's photos gorgeous?

@Ivar or anyone in Santiago...pretty please...are any pics possible of the Portico de la Gloria, now that it's open?

The line was very long today, going out almost to Praza de Fonseca. No chance of getting close enough to see it or take photos. Maybe one day one of us will get up early and try to get in!
 
The one from Galicia (the round) and the one from Castilla & Leon. Individually numbered and made by the same people that make the ones you see on your walk.
The 2024 Camino guides will be coming out little by little. Here is a collection of the ones that are out so far.
It gives them joy and emotion. When it is too worn down, put up a new one. To hide it, and to protect it is akin to putting plastic covers on furniture so as not to get them dirty and worn. The furniture stays nice, but is never truly comfortable to use and lacks enjoyment.

I empathize with where you are coming from and am hardly in much of a position to be "holier than thou" about it, since I, too, put my hand in that spot (albeit in 1989, before people were being asked to refrain). But I think there is a distinction between this sculpted pillar and a sofa that is worth noting.

The Portico de la Gloria is a work of art, not a mass produced piece of furniture. It is considered one of the masterpieces of romanesque sculpture in the world. When it is "too worn down" it cannot be replaced. It will be gone forever. It was sculpted to be seen. Protecting it does not interfere with its performing its intended function.

When I read the quote above, it sounds to me like someone saying "My kids would love to clamber on the Venus de Milo and really get to physically experience it. It would give them joy and emotion. But those nasty people at the Louvre have guards and ropes to prevent that. Let them clamber! If it falls down and breaks, we can just replace it. I'm sure my cousin Bob could whip them up a sculpture just as good. To protect it is wrong! It will stay nice, but people won't really enjoy it."
 
I empathize with where you are coming from and am hardly in much of a position to be "holier than thou" about it, since I, too, put my hand in that spot (albeit in 1989, before people were being asked to refrain). But I think there is a distinction between this sculpted pillar and a sofa that is worth noting.

The Portico de la Gloria is a work of art, not a mass produced piece of furniture. It is considered one of the masterpieces of romanesque sculpture in the world. When it is "too worn down" it cannot be replaced. It will be gone forever. It was sculpted to be seen. Protecting it does not interfere with its performing its intended function.

When I read the quote above, it sounds to me like someone saying "My kids would love to clamber on the Venus de Milo and really get to physically experience it. It would give them joy and emotion. But those nasty people at the Louvre have guards and ropes to prevent that. Let them clamber! If it falls down and breaks, we can just replace it. I'm sure my cousin Bob could whip them up a sculpture just as good. To protect it is wrong! It will stay nice, but people won't really enjoy it."
Well, in all reality it really is just stuff. Things. Material possessions and made by humans and replaceable. Whether it is the pillar in question, or the Venus, and yes there is actually somewhere a person (his name may not be Bob) that could make an exact duplicate of the Venus, or any of the well known art pieces.
Quite honestly, I find a good sturdy mass produced sofa more useful than the Venus or the pillar in question. The sofa gives me a place to sit me six when I watch the football games on TV with a cold beer in my hands. :D
So I cannot take an elitist attitude towards the pillar in the cathedral. The masses do not care about its artistic value. They just want to touch it. Let them touch it I say.
 
Get a spanish phone number with Airalo. eSim, so no physical SIM card. Easy to use app to add more funds if needed.
@RJM I do not consider myself as an elitist at all and yet I do care about the artistic and cultural value of pillar and cathedral.
Btw I do take offense of your wording about " the masses".
But yes if treasuring our cultural heritage is considered as being elitist? It is my sincere idea that it is just our moral obligation.
 
@RJM I do not consider myself as an elitist at all and yet I do care about the artistic and cultural value of pillar and cathedral.
Btw I do take offense of your wording about " the masses".
But yes if treasuring our cultural heritage is considered as being elitist? It is my sincere idea that it is just our moral obligation.
Well said Sabine .
 
The focus is on reducing the risk of failure through being well prepared. 2nd ed.
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