Santiago de Compostela, the capital of Spain’s Galicia region, has been a destination for over a thousand years for pilgrims from all corners of the world.
Its historical significance as the reputed burial place of Saint James the Apostle and its status as the terminus of the Camino de Santiago has cemented its place on the map as a destination of both spiritual and cultural importance. However, in recent years, Santiago de Compostela has found itself grappling with the pressures of a significant increase in the number of pilgrims every year, raising questions at least about the sustainability of its burgeoning popularity.
The Surge in Visitor Numbers
Graph showing the growth in the number of people walking the Camino Francés
The largest group of pilgrims hailed from Spain, accounting for around 239,417 of the total. International pilgrims were also significant, with the United States leading with 32,069 pilgrims, followed by Italy and Germany with 28,648 and 24,347, respectively.
This increase in pilgrim numbers reflects not only the Camino’s spiritual and cultural importance but also its increasingly broad appeal to people of various nationalities and ages. The Camino Francés remained the most popular route, attracting 219,785 pilgrims, while other routes, like the Camino Portuguese and the Portuguese Coastal Camino, also saw substantial numbers.
Economic Boon and Cultural Dissonance
Thanks to the steady stream of visitors, local businesses, including hotels, restaurants, and shops, have flourished. On one hand, the influx of visitors has been an economic boon for Santiago de Compostela. The financial benefits also extend well beyond the city, positively impacting surrounding rural areas, often stopovers for pilgrims along the various Caminos.
However, this economic upswing comes with significant drawbacks. The sheer volume of pilgrims has strained local infrastructure and resources, particularly in Santiago de Compostella, where all roads end. The narrow medieval streets, once serene and contemplative, now teem with crowds of visitors, making everyday life challenging for residents. The city’s cultural fabric is also at risk, as the commercialisation associated with tourism can dilute the authenticity of local traditions and customs.
Environmental Impact
Another critical concern is the environmental toll of over tourism. Increased foot traffic has led to wear and tear on historical sites, and the natural landscapes along the pilgrimage routes have suffered from littering and overuse. The carbon footprint associated with travel, particularly from international visitors, further exacerbates environmental concerns and considerations.
Efforts to Mitigate Overtourism
Recognising the need to address these challenges, local authorities and community groups have initiated several measures to mitigate the adverse effects of what some consider to be too many tourists. Efforts include promoting off-season travel to spread visitor numbers more evenly throughout the year and encouraging lesser-known routes of the Camino to alleviate pressure on the main paths.
Initiatives to educate visitors on sustainable travel practices are also underway. Campaigns to “leave no trace” and respect local customs are gaining traction. Additionally, investments in infrastructure, such as improved waste management systems and maintenance of historical sites, are seen as essential steps toward ensuring that the city can sustainably accommodate its visitors.
Balancing Act: Tourism and Preservation
Striking a balance between welcoming visitors and preserving Santiago de Compostela’s unique character and environment is no easy feat. The city must navigate the delicate interplay between economic benefits and the need to maintain its cultural and historical integrity.
Ultimately, the future of Santiago de Compostela as a pilgrimage destination and tourist attraction hinges on the successful implementation of sustainable tourism practices. By fostering a sense of shared responsibility among visitors, pilgrims, locals, and policymakers, Santiago de Compostela can, we hope continue to thrive.
Respectful Pilgrimage
But pilgrims do have a big part to play. Our top tips:
Leave No Trace:
- Carry all your rubbish until you find appropriate disposal points. Littering not only mars the natural beauty but also disrespects the environment and local communities.
- Stick to marked paths to minimise environmental impact and go out of your way to avoid disturbing wildlife or damaging vegetation.
Use Reusable Items:
- Opt for reusable water bottles and bags to reduce waste. This simple practice can significantly cut down on plastic pollution along the route.
Respect Local Customs and Sites:
- Dress modestly and talk quietly, especially when entering churches or religious sites. This shows respect for the sanctity of these spaces.
- Be mindful of local customs and traditions. Engage with the culture in a respectful manner, learning and adapting to the local way of life.
Support Local Businesses:
- Patronise local shops, restaurants, and accommodations. This supports the local economy and fosters goodwill between pilgrims and residents.
Maintain Hygiene:
- Wherever possible, use public toilets or facilities provided by albergues (pilgrim hostels), bars and restaurants. Avoid using the outdoors for bathroom needs. If you are caught short, bury any human waste and bag any toilet paper for disposal at the next bathroom. Nobody wants to see loo paper discarded by the path or in an adjacent field or wood.
Whilst the ever-increasing number of pilgrims poses substantial challenges to Santiago de Compostela, it also offers an opportunity to reimagine tourism in a way that respects and preserves the essence of pilgrimage and this historic city.
The conversation has already started. It will be interesting to see how it develops.
Buen Camino!
