Big increase in pilgrim numbers this weekend?

[Bradypus]

A friend pointed out to me that the pilgrim office recorded 769 Compostelas issued on Saturday and wondered if that was a genuine number or caused by the pilgrim office "catching up" on past records. The pilgrim office figures have been a little erratic recently while new systems have been introduced. If accurate then there seems to have been a very large increase in numbers this week considering the time of year and I'm wondering what Holy Week and Easter will bring this year. The very helpful Solvitur Ambulando site gives a good graphical view of this recent spike.

 

[Kitsambler]

While I can't speak to your exact question, I can say for sure, having just returned from 3 weeks in northern Italy late last night, that "spring has sprung", Spring Break seems to have become a worldwide phenomenon, and the crowds everywhere are already huge.

 

[Former member 92300]

Do you have numbers to compare the trend to last year? I wonder if the uptick occurred close to this week last year.

I would imagine the temperatures are more favorable for hiking - but I did see a bit of rain in the forecast for the upcoming week. I know at home I am suddenly seeing everyone outside and on the local walking trails.

 

[Bradypus]

Do you have numbers to compare the trend to last year? I wonder if the uptick occurred close to this week last year.

In March last year the largest single daily number was 603. So quite a lot less than this weekend. Though the accumulated total for the year to date was similar.

 

[Bob from L.A. !]

Maybe with Covid starting to fade in the rear view mirror, coupled with better weather, people are starting to venture out?

 

[opar]

Arriving this Sunday is the office open Sundays?

 

[Bradypus]

Arriving this Sunday is the office open Sundays?

Yes. Open every day except 25 December and 1 January. 9am to 7pm just now - hours may be longer in summer.