Back to Santiago de Compostela (taxi again)

by Renee · May 31, 2024

I am sitting at the Santiago airport waiting for our Madrid flight on Friday morning.

We arrived back to Santiago yesterday at 1115 am and our hotel was in the San Agostina square and we were able to check out the most amazing market. I met up with K for a Mass at noon in the center square and it had a San Rita altar in the side alcove so I was very happy to go in.

We went to a very long lunch at at fancy tasting restaurant, then we finally checked into our hotel. After showering we headed back to the cathedral but I just sat outside the square and watched the pilgrims come in. K went inside and texted me to tell me the Botafumeiro was hanging. This iconic symbol broke this last December and it was not hanging when we were here a few days ago. I ran in and took a pic but I did not stay for Mass. K did but it was not used for Mass.

Per the Google, “the Botafumeiro is one of the most famous and popular symbols of the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela. It is a large incenser that moves from the central dome of the Cathedral, from where it hangs by a system of pulleys, towards the side naves. Eight men are needed to move it, the well-known “tiraboleiros”. It weighs 53 kg and measures 1.50 meters; it is suspended at a height of 20 meters and can reach 68 km/h.”

We had a 1030 pm tour. Sadly it was only in Spanish but our translators on our phones worked.

The night repair crew came in for Botafumeiro work with a crane and all and completely protected the altar. We actually got to witness the repair and saw the Botafumeiro being swung. So our 25€ Spanish ticket was worth the money to us anyway. Sadly we were not allowed to take photos of the crew in action.

A lot of people have asked me if I achieved my goals for walking the Camino. I thought this was a good time to sum it up. The Cathedral actually has grief counseling since some have issues after arriving. Thankfully I do not fit into that category.

My dad would always say don’t talk about religion and politics and I mostly always listened to my dear old dad.

The Camino for me was personal and I think it is a different experience for each person who walks. But it’s safe to say that I feel very blessed and thanked God each and every day for my life and for allowing me to be the daughter of two amazing parents who I also thanked God for each day.

I can share the positivity of this adventure.

Meeting Kathryn was a blessing. She was like Gram Cili with the rosary and church. She snores like my mom and she sneezes after a meal like my dad. I was happy to join her for the Spanish Mass in the towns where we could attend.

Each day of the Camino was different and I learned quickly to respect and tackle each day. It brought humility since it was more difficult than I anticipated.

Living with less is simple and stress free.

Perseverance came with a knee issue on day 4 and ankle issue later on (both got better).

I felt great love from Paige and my boys. And friends. The video for Mother’s Day put me on cloud nine.

It was awesome getting emails and texts from family and friends.

Having to deal with different personalities and learning to ignore and zip my mouth is a big accomplishment for those who know me well lol.

Last but not least, I will forever have a love affair with my Altra Lone Peaks for lasting the trail without discomfort and for not giving me one blister.

Off to Madrid!! See you tomorrow Paige!