All you have to know about the Fisterrana: the compostela of the route to fisterra
The Camino de Santiago is the most popular route that leads to the city of Santiago de Compostela, but there is another equally fascinating route that leads to Finisterre, known as "the end of the world". As you may well know, on the Camino de Santiago you are stamping your credentials to obtain at the end of your pilgrimage, the long-awaited Compostela. In this case, the official certification that is obtained on the route from Santiago to Fisterra is known as the Fisterrana. It is obtained in the hostel of Fisterra, accrediting that you have arrived there.
The route to Fisterra: an extension of the Way of St. James
The route from Santiago to Finisterre is a natural extension of the Camino de Santiago, which was traditionally considered the "end of the world" in ancient times. The word "Finisterre" in Latin means "end of the earth", reflecting the belief that this point on the Atlantic coast of Galicia, Spain, was the limit of the known world.
History and significance
For pilgrims who choose to continue their pilgrimage, the journey beyond SantiagoFinisterre represents a new beginning or a spiritual culmination. The tradition of burning the clothes used on the journey symbolised the shedding of the past and rebirth. It is a time to reflect on the journey completed and to consider the new paths that will open up in the future.
The Compostela of Finisterre
As in Santiago, the pilgrims who complete the Camino to Finisterre can obtain a compostelaa certificate of pilgrimage that attests your trip. This document that receives the name of "Fisterrana" was created by the City Council of Fisterra in 1997. To get it, pilgrims must get stamps on their pilgrim's credential in the last 100 kilometres of the way and also in Finisterre. You can get stamps in hostels, parishes, churches or in any place representative of the Camino. On your arrival in Fisterra, you can pick up your "Fisterrana" at the hostel in Fisterra.
This document is a testimony of their effort and dedication, a tangible proof of their unique experience.
The charm of the Way to Finisterre
The Camino to Finisterre offers a different experience compared to the main route to Santiago. As pilgrims make their way through the Galician meadows, they pass through ancient forests, picturesque rural villages and breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean. The sense of peace and connection with nature is palpable, providing a perfect environment for reflection and introspection.
Exploring beyond the Camino de Santiago stages
Although the stages of the French Way of Saint James end in Santiago de Compostela, many pilgrims choose to extend their journey to Fisterra or explore the coastal variant of the Portuguese Way. Both routes not only extend the physical route but also the spiritual experience of the traditional routes.
Arriving at Fisterra, travellers can obtain the Fisterrana, while the Portuguese Way offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and a tour of the rich culture of the coastal regions of Portugal and Galicia. Both extensions certify an arrival full of meaning and reflection at their final destinations.
Conclusions
The pilgrimage to Finisterre offers a different experience compared to the main route to Santiago. As pilgrims make their way through the Galician countryside, they pass through ancient forests, picturesque rural villages and breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean. The sense of peace and connection with nature is palpable, providing a perfect environment for reflection and introspection.
