The Compostela is the official certificate issued to pilgrims who complete the Camino de Santiago and arrive in Santiago de Compostela, provided they meet certain requirements set by the Pilgrim’s Office. It confirms that the pilgrim has walked the Camino for religious or spiritual reasons, has correctly stamped their pilgrim passport, and covered at least 100 km on foot or horseback, or 200 km by bicycle.
Although many people call it the “Compostelana”, this is incorrect. The official name is simply Compostela, and the certificate is written in Latin, with the pilgrim’s name also translated into Latin.
More than just a document, the Compostela is a treasured symbol of faith and effort for those who complete the Camino, and a lasting reminder of their personal journey.