Holy Year in Santiago: what it means for pilgrims

In short: 2027, as 25 July then falls on a Sunday. The one after that is in 2032.

Whenever 25 July, the feast day of St James, falls on a Sunday, Santiago celebrates a Holy Year, called Xacobeo in Galician. The next one is in 2027, and the one after that in 2032.

The Holy Door

During the Holy Year the cathedral's Holy Door, which otherwise stays shut, is open. Believers walk through it and can receive a special indulgence. According to reports it will be opened on 31 December 2026.

What this means in practice

In a Holy Year pilgrim numbers rise sharply, especially in Galicia. Beds on the last 100 kilometres become scarce. So reserve early, or switch to quieter routes such as the Camino de Invierno.

When to go

The crowds are biggest around 25 July. If you prefer things quieter, choose spring or autumn. There is more on timing in our article The best time of year for a pilgrimage.

Compostela

The rules for the certificate stay the same. In these years too you need the required distance and stamps, as described in our article on the Compostela.