Santiago de Compostela!!!! Day 25

I made it! 490 km from Burgos to Santaigo de Compostela. 

We walked the last 8 km this morning and arrived at the cathedral a little before 11:00. 

We are staying in a converted monastery directly across the plaza from the cathedral.

The big pilgrim mass was at noon- there is a catholic youth conference in town so the mass was full of pomp and circumstances. 

Including a British Cardinal who gave a second homily in English.

The mass welcomed all the pilgrims and announced the country of origin and where people had started their pilgrimages.  Pauline and I will be announced at mass tomorrow. 

Then because of the special guests they lit the giant botafumeiro (incense burner) it takes 8 guys to swing it up and down across the whole church.  So cool!!!

The cathedral was packed all seats full and he aisles full. Looking around I saw a good number of pilgrims that I knew from  the Camino. Felt like a homecoming.

I will go back and spend some time in the cathedral when it is a little quieter.

Arriving in Santaigo is an amazing Mother's Day gift. Thank you Rich for supporting me and making this journey possible. Thanks to my inlaws, parents , Desiree and friends for helping take care of my family.  Thanks to all the people who fed, sheltered, encouraged and supported me - here in Spain and from home. 

More later........