Day 1 – Welcome to Astorga

By Carine Fraser | Camino de Santiago 2025

Welcome to Astorga, a charming little gem nestled at the crossroads of the Camino Francés and the Vía de la Plata. This town has been a hub of activity since Roman times, when it was the golden ticket (literally) for mining operations in the nearby mountains. If walls could talk, the remnants of Roman structures would regale you with tales of gold and glory!

The Catedral de Santa María

Our journey begins at the stunning Catedral de Santa María — a stylish mix of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture all under one roof. A fitting place to start a walk that is as much about the spirit as it is about the steps.

The Palacio Episcopal — Gaudí’s Fairy Tale

Next door stands the Palacio Episcopal, designed by the one and only Antoni Gaudí in 1889. This whimsical building looks like it belongs in a fairy tale, complete with a Neo-Gothic exterior that could easily double as a castle from your childhood dreams.

Today it houses the Museo de los Caminos — a tribute to the many pilgrims who have trekked through Astorga over the centuries. A reminder, right at the start, that we are walking in the footsteps of countless others who came before us.

About This Journey

Carine is walking the Camino de Santiago from Astorga to Santiago (12–28 June 2025) in support of Retina South Africa — carrying with her the Ribbons of Love purchased by supporters before her departure, and leaving them at meaningful moments along the way.

Each ribbon represents a person who chose to walk with her in spirit — and at every stop, she carries that with her. Thank you to everyone who is part of this journey. 🎗️

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