What is the Compostela and how can you get it?

The Compostela is the official document that certifies a pilgrimage has been completed to the tomb of the Apostle Saint James for religious or spiritual reasons. Issued by the Pilgrim’s Office of the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela, this certification is not merely a travel souvenir: it represents the recognition of an inner journey, an act of faith or reflection accompanying the physical route to the Apostle’s city.

This document, written in Latin with the pilgrim’s name also Latinised, has for centuries been a symbolic and spiritual goal for those who complete the Camino de Santiago. Simply arriving in the city is not enough: specific conditions must be met in terms of both the route and the purpose of the pilgrimage.

What are the requirements for obtaining the Compostela?

The general rule states that at least 100 kilometres must be walked or ridden on horseback, or 200 kilometres cycled, following a single, continuous route officially recognised as a Camino de Santiago.

For pilgrimages completed on foot or horseback, the Oficina do Peregrino specifies:

“To have completed 100 continuous kilometres towards Santiago along a single route listed in the computer system of the International Pilgrim Welcome Centre. The final stage to complete the required distance must be, at minimum, the one immediately before arriving at the Cathedral.”

Additionally, if the starting point is located outside Spain, the minimum number of kilometres walked within Spanish territory must be at least 70 continuous kilometres, also along a single official itinerary.

Can the 100 kilometres be split across different routes?

No. This is a crucial point and often causes confusion among pilgrims. The 100 kilometres must be completed continuously, that is, without combining segments from different Caminos, and within one single recognised route.

This means that it is not valid, for example, to walk 50 km along the French Way and another 50 km along the Portuguese Way to make up the 100 km. Nor is it valid to accumulate stages from different years if they were not completed in one continuous journey and within the same itinerary. The credential must show a coherent path, with no switches between routes.

The final stage before arriving in Santiago must be, at the very least, the one immediately preceding arrival at the Cathedral. This ensures the continuity of the effort and the authenticity of the pilgrimage.

The English Way from Ferrol: a valid and recognised option

Among the most popular routes meeting this requirement is the English Way from Ferrol. With an approximate distance of 119 kilometres, this route offers an ideal itinerary for those wishing to complete the Camino in a week, enjoying coastal and rural landscapes in northern Galicia.

Ferrol is, therefore, a perfectly valid starting point for obtaining the Compostela via the English Way, as it meets the minimum required distance and follows a continuous path to the Cathedral of Santiago.

Along the route, pilgrims find ample opportunities to stamp their credential at least twice per day, as also required by the regulations, and to enjoy an authentic experience both physically and spiritually.

And what about the English Way from A Coruña?

The case of the English Way from A Coruña requires further explanation. The distance from this city to Santiago is around 73 kilometres, which means it falls short of the 100 kilometres required to obtain the Compostela under the general conditions.

However, there are recognised and currently applied options that allow pilgrims starting from A Coruña to qualify for this certificate. One such option is to complete a prior section of a recognised Camino elsewhere, such as in their home country, provided it is officially linked to a Jacobean route. If the combined total of both segments reaches 100 kilometres, the joint credential may be presented to request the Compostela. This option applies especially to European citizens whose countries have recognised Jacobean routes.

Another possibility is available for residents of the city of A Coruña. These pilgrims may present their ID card to prove their residency and thus validate their pilgrimage. Although no additional documentation is required, it is recommended that they undertake the Camino with spiritual intent and include visits to several Jacobean landmarks in the city, such as the Church of Santiago, the Tower of Hercules, the old Hospital of San Andrés, or the Convent of Santo Domingo, among others.

These conditions make the Camino from A Coruña a viable option for those already in the city who wish to experience the Camino de Santiago without walking over 100 kilometres, provided it is done with preparation, respect for the spirit of the pilgrimage, and the proper documentation.

What documents are needed upon arrival in Santiago?

To receive the Compostela via the English Way, the pilgrim must present their official Camino de Santiago credential, properly stamped, at the Pilgrim’s Office.

During the last 100 kilometres of the route (or from A Coruña under the specific conditions described), it is recommended to collect at least two stamps per day. These can be obtained at churches, hostels, accommodations, bars, associations, or any authorised entity.

The credential is the document that certifies each stage of the journey, and its validity depends on the stamps being clearly marked with the date, location, and issuing entity. Without this completed documentation, the Compostela cannot be issued.

A continuous and well-documented route is key to the Compostela

The English Way, whether from Ferrol or from A Coruña, offers a rewarding and accessible experience for those who wish to undertake the Jacobean pilgrimage. The key to obtaining the Compostela via the English Way lies in meeting the criteria of continuity, spiritual intent, and proper documentation.

Ferrol is an ideal starting point, as it exceeds the required 100 kilometres and fully complies with all official regulations. A Coruña also offers the possibility of receiving the Compostela, provided the current specific conditions are met. That is why it is important to plan the Camino carefully and consult in advance the necessary details to ensure a complete and officially recognised experience by the Cathedral of Santiago..