Walked the Camino over 12 times to Santiago never once went into Cathedral.

[MickMac]

Walked the Camino to Santiago over 12 times now, never once did I go into the Cathedral.

I was impressed by it's understated magnificent facade never felt a need to go in. I am not unreligious just never felt the need.

 

[SioCamino]

If still in Santiago I would recommend popping in to have a wander around. I think that the recent renovation was just wonderful, restoring the flow of the cathedral back to its origins and bringing in very sympathetic modern features (specifically the lighting which is I think is very beautiful and while clearly modern is used in an unobtrusive way and in fact highlights features).

 

[JabbaPapa]

Prior to its most recent cleanup/renovation, this church did have its flaws -- but if you intend to return once more, it has become straightforwardly gorgeous both out and in.

Otherwise, as I am a silly pedant -- if you have been to the Pilgrim Office, it is technically a part of the Cathedral.

Honestly, next time just go in.

It is a very beautiful church.

 

[Caomhin O Fearghaill]

I wonder why you felt the need to say why you never felt the need?

 

[SabsP]

In 2011 you were still allowed to enter with your backpack.
A very moving moment.

A month ago I was able to participate twice in the Pilgrim's Mass at 7.30 pm. Both times the Botafumeiro was in action. I appreciated how they announced this ritual as an integral part of the service and not some kind of " event ". There were more people not filming than filming.
Could be that the evening service attracts more contemplative people?

 

[Dani7]

I wonder why you felt the need to say why you never felt the need?

…and I wonder why I felt the need to click open this thread . The title said it all and I am questioning my own motive.

 

[OTH86]

FWIW, @MicMac, James A. Michener's book Iberia (1968) has incredible descriptions of the Cathedral, inside and out - architecturally, historically and artistically. I'm taking those 99 pages with me in a couple of weeks, for a more thorough appreciation when I arrive again...

 

[MickMac]

I wonder why you felt the need to say why you never felt the need?

It baffles me, Maybe? for me reaching your destination is a completion and fulfilment of my Camino. Maybe? I did not want this "ending",

Maybe? it's the tourism all around it for some, "not begrudging it" it's a day out on the tour bus,

I wanted a more spiritual experience that did not exist.

Also had the same feeling at the cruz de ferro wanted it to mean more than queuing with my rock and feelings.
Maybe? I am just weird or sad .

 

[Perambulating Griffin]

I have been to the cathedral and prayed at the remains of the saint, but I go to mass at the Pilgrim office (so that I can avoid the gawkers in the cathedral who won't respect the private nature of mass and insist of filming, snapping photos etc).

 

[Turga]

just never felt the need.

Good for you (I guess). What other things didn’t you feel a need to do and want to share?