The Camino de Santiago is one of the most iconic pilgrimage routes in the world. For centuries, millions of pilgrims have walked its paths with different motivations: religious, cultural, sporting or personal.

The main goal for most pilgrims is to reach Santiago de Compostela, where they receive the Compostela, a certificate that acknowledges the completion of the pilgrimage if certain requirements are met.

However, what many may not know is that there are other certificates linked to different routes and destinations along the Camino de Santiago, each with its own meaning and tradition. In this article, you’ll discover some of these alternative documents that pilgrims can obtain on their journey.

 

The Compostela: The classic certificate

The Compostela is undoubtedly the best-known and most sought-after certificate for pilgrims. This document is awarded at the Pilgrim’s Office in Santiago de Compostela to those who have walked at least 100 kilometres or cycled 200 kilometres.

The history of the Compostela dates back to the Middle Ages, when it was established as a way of recognising the devotion of those who reached the tomb of the Apostle James. To obtain it, pilgrims must have their pilgrim’s credential stamped along the route at churches, hostels, or other official points.

This document not only certifies the journey but is a physical testament to the effort made. The Compostela has become a symbol of personal achievement, and for many, receiving it at the end of the Camino is the perfect conclusion to a transformative experience.

But, as we’ve hinted, there are other certificates that we are excited to show you.

 

The Fisterrana and the Muxiana: Beyond Santiago

Although most pilgrims end their journey in Santiago de Compostela, some choose to continue their trek to Cape Finisterre or Muxía. For these pilgrims, there are two equally significant certificates: the Fisterrana and the Muxiana.

 

The Fisterrana

The Fisterrana is awarded in Finisterre, a place historically considered “the end of the world” due to its geographical location at the westernmost point of the Iberian Peninsula. This certificate is proof that the pilgrim has completed the journey from Santiago to this emblematic spot, which once symbolised the end of the voyage and spiritual renewal.

The stages of the Camino de Finisterre from Santiago are a natural extension of the Camino. They offer breathtaking landscapes and a sense of culmination at the vast horizon of the Atlantic Ocean.

The Muxiana

On the other hand, the Muxiana is given in the town of Muxía, a few kilometres north of Finisterre. This certificate acknowledges the completion of the route to the Sanctuary of Our Lady of the Boat, a place steeped in spirituality and maritime legends.

The Muxiana is less known than the Fisterrana, but more and more pilgrims are seeking it as a way to end their journey in a more intimate and less crowded setting.

After completing these additional stages, many pilgrims choose to take the organised Camino de Santiago. This allows them to enjoy the journey without worrying about logistics and focus solely on the experience.

 

The Primitive Way certificate

The Primitive Way is one of the oldest routes of the Camino de Santiago, used by King Alfonso II of Asturias in the 9th century to visit the tomb of the Apostle James for the first time. This route is known for its toughness and beauty, as it crosses the mountains of northern Spain.

Although it is less travelled than other more popular routes, it offers pilgrims an authentic and challenging experience.

Those who complete the full Primitive Way can obtain a special certificate that acknowledges their effort. This certificate stands out for its historical value, as it follows the steps of the first pilgrims who walked the Camino. Additionally, many consider this route the closest to the original pilgrimage experience.

 

The English Way certificate

The English Way is a route with a rich maritime history. During the Middle Ages, many pilgrims from northern Europe, particularly from England, arrived at the Galician coasts by boat to begin their pilgrimage to Santiago. This route mainly starts from the ports of Ferrol and A Coruña, and passes through beautiful rural and coastal landscapes.

Today, pilgrims who complete the full English Way from Ferrol can obtain a certificate that recognises their pilgrimage. As they walk this route, pilgrims pass through historic towns and walk along the sea, experiencing a unique combination of nature and culture.

The full English Way offers a quieter alternative to the French Way, but one no less rich in meaning.

 

The French Way certificate

The French Way is the most popular route of the Camino de Santiago, and one of the most iconic points of this route is the small village of O Cebreiro, located in the province of Lugo.

This place is famous for its traditional architecture and its historical importance on the Camino. For many pilgrims, O Cebreiro marks the beginning of the final stretch of their pilgrimage, as it is from here that the last 150 kilometres to Santiago are counted. Pilgrims who start their walk in O Cebreiro can obtain a specific credential that certifies their journey from this point.

The French Way from O Cebreiro is one of the most picturesque and emotional sections of the Camino, and obtaining this certificate is a testament to the efforts made along this significant part of the journey.

 

Other less-known certificates

In addition to the certificates mentioned above, there are other less-known certificates that pilgrims can obtain along the different routes of the Camino de Santiago. Some examples include:

  • The Lebaniega, which is awarded to pilgrims who walk to the Monastery of Santo Toribio in Liébana.
  • The Salvadoran, given to those who complete the Camino del Salvador between León and Oviedo.

Each of these documents has its own history and significance, making them valuable souvenirs of the different spiritual and cultural journeys along the Camino de Santiago.

 

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Camino de Santiago offers more than just the Compostela. Each certificate represents a unique story, a different path, and a personal journey. Whether you choose to walk the French Way, the English Way, or any of the other routes, receiving a certificate at the end of your journey is a tangible reward that commemorates the effort, perseverance, and spiritual significance of this pilgrimage.