Learning from Europe’s Pilgrimage Capital and lead cultural route
In October 2024, the ACSOW Scientific Committee carried out a study visit to Santiago de Compostela, Europe’s best-known pilgrimage destination and the endpoint of the Camino de Santiago. The visit formed part of the committee’s ongoing efforts to better understand pilgrimage research, route management, and the role of scientific expertise within a European Cultural Route.
Meetings with Researchers and Route Experts
During the visit, the committee met with a range of researchers, tourism professionals, and public authorities involved in the development and management of the Camino. Among the highlights were meetings with Professor Xosé Santos Solla from the University of Santiago de Compostela, a leading researcher on pilgrimage and pilgrimage tourism, and Professor Miguel Taín Guzmán, Director of the Chair of the Camino de Santiago. Both shared valuable perspectives on pilgrimage research, cultural heritage, and the organization of one of Europe’s most successful pilgrimage routes.
The committee also met representatives from Turismo de Santiago and the regional authorities of Galicia, gaining insights into how pilgrimage is integrated into tourism strategies, cultural heritage management, and regional development. Particular interest was shown in how academic knowledge is connected to route management and public policy.
Experiencing the Camino First-Hand
Alongside the formal meetings, participants visited important sites associated with the Camino, including Monte do Gozo, where pilgrims traditionally catch their first glimpse of Santiago Cathedral before completing their journey. The visit also included time to explore the city and its pilgrimage infrastructure, providing an opportunity to experience Santiago from both a pilgrim’s and a destination manager’s perspective.
Reflecting on the Committee’s Future Role
A central purpose of the study trip was to provide a shared experience and inspiration for the committee’s own discussions about its future role within ACSOW. Throughout the visit, members reflected on how other cultural routes and institutions organize scientific advisory work, and what role a scientific committee can realistically play in supporting a European Cultural Route.
The visit did not result in any formal projects or initiatives, but it provided valuable knowledge and perspectives that informed ongoing discussions about the committee’s mandate, priorities, and level of ambition. Following the visit, the committee agreed to continue exploring its role step by step, focusing on knowledge exchange, networking, and identifying areas where it can contribute value to ACSOW and the wider St. Olav Ways network.
Participants
