The Pilgrim Monument

[jsalt]

Why does the camino not go past the Pilgrim Monument on the way into Santiago?



Jill

 

[peregrina2000]

Well, that is a good question. I have to (sheepishly) admit that I have walked into Santiago almost every year since 2000 (though not always on the Frances) and until last year I had not ever seen these guys up at Monte de Gozo. I was walking with a bunch who insisted we take the little detour. There was a lot of earth moving going on, and we speculated that there was going to be some attempt to re-route the Camino. But I think you were there after I was, so I guess that must not be right. It was kind of nice to be there all alone, imagine the hoards if it were on the Camino!

 

[MTtoCamino]

Many routes seem to get changed more for the buisness perspective. Yet IMHO we miss many things because of not slowing down, or simply not doing our homework of what exists.
That said it also may bring pilgrims back for that very reason.
So much to see so little time...

 

[scruffy1]

The approach to Santiago for many many pilgrims is an exhilarating and often emotional experience. This can often be felt already even before Sarria as pilgrims become focused on Santiago, increasing their daily walking distance and times, I have seen people actually crying at the 100 kilometer stone, asking for more and more information on Santiago and sadly passing some wonderful sites - literally not seeing the forest for the trees. They are even willing to spend the last night at the Monto de Gozo lodging, something I did once and vowed "Never Again"! The view from Monto de Gozo is often enchanting and I believe that many would not have seen the monument even if it were planted in the middle of the path as they gallop down the hill. So if you really enjoy the moniment or the view pass the word along and enourage people to take the short detour - perhaps as an evening stroll after arriving on Monte de Gozo.

 

[Devon Mike]

Definitely worth a short detour to get your first view of the SdC Cathedral.

My other favourite detour along the Camino Frances is to visit Eunate.

 

[Felipe]

I missed it -and now, I regret that. I had had to stop a couple of times due to a persistent rain, it was getting late, and the precise place of the monument was not evident (or maybe I did not see the signpost...)
Next time, I hope.

 

[Mark McCarthy]

Its about a 10 min detour which is a lot if you struggling to get to midday mass in Santiago. If you are not in a rush I think its definitely worth a visit.

 

[Lydia Gillen]

Last year whilst walking from Burgos to Santiago I saw all sorts of monuments that I had never seen on my previous two Caminos. I was amazed. Were they brand new? No they were well weathered. Then I realised that on previous Caminos I was always intent on getting to a certain place in time to get a bed, head down going as fast as I could. Having booked albergues in advance last year I was able to go bit slower and have time to look around and take time to read historical plaques etc. A good experience.