The director of Tourism for Galicia, Xosé Merelles, inaugurated the International Colloquium of the Expert Committee on the Camino de Santiago, focusing on the Camino Portugués. This event, organised by Turismo de Galicia in collaboration with the International Expert Committee on the Camino de Santiago and the Town Hall of Tui, brings together researchers, university specialists from Galicia and Portugal, representatives of Friends of the Camino associations, and other stakeholders linked to the Xacobean culture over two days.
During his address, Merelles emphasised the importance of the Camino Portugués and its variant along A Costa, noting that it is the second most popular route in terms of pilgrims, following the Camino Francés. He highlighted Tui's role as "one of the main starting points of the itinerary," as well as the significance of its historical and cultural heritage, its tradition of hospitality, and particularly its cathedral, which celebrates the 800th anniversary of its consecration this year. "The Camino Portugués cannot be understood without the historical role of Tui, its heritage, and its cathedral," he stated.
Merelles also acknowledged the contributions of individuals like Maria da Graça Sánchez da Gama, who dedicated her knowledge and efforts to studying, promoting, and disseminating this Xacobean route, helping to establish it as an international reference. The colloquium aims to deepen understanding of a route that serves as a fundamental link between Galicia and Portugal and is currently part of the international dimension of the Xacobean phenomenon. "We are dealing with a route that connects two territories with shared history, culture, and identity, but also meets the demands of thousands of pilgrims from around the world," he added.
He stressed that "better understanding its evolution and values is essential for continuing to promote its conservation, promotion, and development." The colloquium, coordinated by members of the International Expert Committee on the Camino de Santiago, has over 60 registered participants, including representatives from Xacobean associations, tourism professionals linked to the Camino, and attendees from Portugal.
Throughout the two days, conferences and discussion sessions will explore various historical, cultural, artistic, and socioeconomic perspectives of the Camino Portugués. Planned topics include the evolution of the route in Portugal and Galicia, the welcoming and hospitality associated with the Camino, the economic development of the regions it traverses, and the challenges and future prospects for this itinerary.
The role of the International Expert Committee
The International Expert Committee on the Camino de Santiago serves as the primary scientific reference body for the Xunta de Galicia regarding Xacobean matters, ensuring that policies for the promotion, protection, and management of the routes are grounded in historical, academic, and heritage rigor. Its main functions include analysing and researching issues related to the Camino, promoting scientific studies and publications, and organising congresses, seminars, and specialised meetings.
Growth of the Camino Portugués and its international dimension
The colloquium coincides with a period of significant growth for the Portuguese route. As of 2026, over 112,000 pilgrims have walked the Camino Portugués, representing a 14% increase compared to the same period last year. Notably, its international appeal is underscored by nearly 75,000 pilgrims, or 67% of the total, coming from other countries. Portugal accounts for 11.2% and the United States for 8.3%, with Italy and Germany also among the top international markets.
The data also confirm a gradual diversification of the Xacobean routes. The Camino Francés accounts for nearly 43% of pilgrimages, while the Camino Portugués and its variant along A Costa each represent around 20%. The latter has also recorded the highest growth rate, with a 25% increase.
