During a commemorative event marking the tenth anniversary of the official recognition of the Camino de Invierno, Xosé Manuel Merelles, the director of Tourism of Galicia, emphasised the collaborative efforts of associations, local councils, and social groups in revitalising and promoting this pilgrimage route. The event took place at the Centro Cultural Avenida de A Rúa.
Merelles reported a significant increase in the number of pilgrims on the Camino de Invierno, which has grown from 287 registered pilgrims in 2016 to 2,758 in 2025. So far in 2026, 2,923 pilgrims have already been counted, reflecting a 14% increase compared to the same period last year. Notably, 39% of this year's pilgrims come from abroad, highlighting the route's growing international appeal.
The director underscored the potential of the Camino de Invierno as a catalyst for tourism, economic growth, and social development in the regions it traverses. He reaffirmed the Xunta's commitment to consolidating this route through various initiatives aimed at improving infrastructure and services for pilgrims.
Looking ahead, Merelles outlined the challenge of further raising awareness and enhancing the profile of the Camino de Invierno, improving its services, and transforming the increase in pilgrims into new opportunities for the areas along the route. He congratulated all individuals and organisations that have contributed to a decade of progress and reiterated the support of Turismo de Galicia for initiatives aimed at promoting this pilgrimage route, particularly with the upcoming Xacobeo 2027.
The Camino de Invierno X Years event will continue on Sunday in Lalín, featuring two roundtable discussions titled ‘Camino, history, religion, and viticulture’ and ‘Ten years of the Camino de Invierno: assessment, territory, and future’. Attendees will have the opportunity to visit various Jacobean resources located along the route.
