If you’ve decided to walk the Camino de Santiago, you’ve probably heard about the Pilgrim’s Credential. Did you know that this small document is essential for your journey and one of the symbols of the Camino de Santiago? Keep reading to find out how and where to get the Pilgrim’s Credential.
What is the Pilgrim’s Credential?
The Pilgrim’s Credential is like a passport that identifies pilgrims traveling the Jacobean routes. Today, there is a classic model accepted and distributed by the Pilgrimage Office of the Diocese of Santiago.
Don’t forget your Credential if you’re doing the Camino de Santiago
This document collects stamps obtained at various points along the route, which can be churches, hostels, hotels, restaurants, etc. These stamps are proof that you’ve walked the Camino and are required to obtain the Compostela, the certificate that validates your pilgrimage.
Generally, on the first page, you’ll need to enter your personal information, and we recommend including your phone number in case you lose it. It will be useful whether you’re doing the Camino all at once, in individual stages, or in separate sections.
Don’t forget to enter your personal information on your credential, including your phone number
Importance of the Credential on the Camino de Santiago
The credential is not only a souvenir of your journey but also has several practical functions:
- Access to public hostels: These hostels only allow entry to people with a credential.
- Obtaining the Compostela: To receive this certificate at the end of the Camino, you need to present a properly stamped credential with two stamps per stage. This proves that you’ve walked at least the last 100 km on foot or the last 200 km by bike.
- Discounts: Some establishments, like museums, as well as various services, offer discounts to pilgrims.
If you want to get the Compostela, you’ll need a credential
Places to Obtain the Credential
Getting the Pilgrim’s Credential is easy, and there are several places in Spain and around the world where you can get it. Some institutions even offer their own, with prior authorization from the Church. Some may even send it to you by mail.
It generally costs around €2, though this can vary, and in some places, you can get it for free. Of course, they will provide it already stamped with the institution’s seal.
There are different models of credentials
Associations of Friends of the Camino de Santiago
Associations of Friends of the Camino are spread worldwide and are often one of the best options to get your credential. They also provide valuable information and support to pilgrims. Check the website of the nearest association for more details, or visit the Federation of Spanish Associations of Friends of the Camino de Santiago.
Churches and Cathedrals
Many churches and cathedrals along the Camino and in other cities also distribute credentials. This is the traditional way to get it, as many people start the Camino at places of religious significance. You can also get it at bishoprics, parishes, confraternities, and other religious centers.
A pilgrim getting their credential at a church
Hostels and Pilgrim Refuges
In numerous hostels and refuges along the Camino, it’s possible to obtain the credential. This is especially useful if you decide to start your pilgrimage spontaneously.
Tourist Offices
Tourist offices, especially in major cities and common starting points of the Camino, also offer the credential. Contact the local tourist office for more details.
Specialized Shops and Bookstores
Some Camino shops and bookstores specialized in pilgrimage items also have credentials. These establishments are usually well-informed and can offer other useful items for your trip.
Pilgrims stamping their credentials on the Camino
At Viajes Camino de Santiago, We Take Care of Everything
We know that planning your pilgrimage can be complicated, with many details to manage, such as where to get the credential. That’s why we offer a complete service where we handle everything you need for your trip, including obtaining your Pilgrim’s Credential.
We even provide other types of credentials, like the Canine Credential and the Finisterre and Muxía Camino Credential, necessary to get other pilgrimage certificates.
Embarking on the Camino de Santiago is a unique and enriching experience, and with us, you’ll have everything you need to enjoy it. Make sure you have your Pilgrim’s Credential to make the most of this adventure. Buen Camino!
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