Compostelas and other info

[megan_&_jeff]

Hi Guys -

We are walking from Ponferrada to Santiago at the end of April - wondering if there are places to get the Compostela outside of Santiago, to carry along the way... we have seen lots of pictures of walkers with the shells on their packs... which must mean they found them along the way???

Also - we are not sure what to keep an eye out for on this particular leg of the camino - have heard much about Astorga and Burgos... but what should we make a point of seeing from Ponferrada onward? Any rituals we would be sad not to partake of? Any not-to-be-missed sites? Any meals to remember?

We presently will be walking with credentials provided by the American Pilgrims Ass. - but have heard that perhaps we need credentials from a local church instead? Is this the case? If so, where can we find these credentials in Santiago or Ponferrada?

Thanks so much,

looking forward to seeing some of you along the way

Buen Camino!

Megan/Jeff

 

[JohnnieWalker]

Hi Megan and Jeff

The Compostela is a certificate only issued by the Pilgrims' Office in Santiago. It is a certificate of completion for those who have walked at least 100 kms or cycled 200 kms.

When setting out many pilgrims wear scallop shell badges or attach scallop shella to their backpacks to identify themselves as pilgrims. On the Camino Frances you can obtain them in many shops along the way or buy some scallops at home before you go and make your own.

The credential from the American Pilgrims' Association is recognised by the Pilgrims' Office in Santiago - have no fear about this, it is all you need.

Best wishes

John