Residents near the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route are voicing concerns that the historic spiritual journey is transforming into a "theme park" due to the disruptive actions of some pilgrims. Locals report an increase in noisy behavior, including chanting, loud music, and public intoxication, which they feel are disrespectful to the sacred nature of the site and the local community.
Reports describe groups of young Spanish pilgrims engaging in loud celebrations, dancing, and even public nudity in historic fountains. One viral video captured pilgrims shouting celebratory phrases. "People arrive singing, shouting, with trombones, tambourines, guitars," said Iván, a local resident. "What they are allowed to do here wouldn’t be tolerated in any other city."
Roberto Almuiña, president of the neighborhood association, stated, "There are people who don't know how to behave." These behaviors, along with instances of picnicking in inappropriate areas, have led to growing frustration among those who live in the area and value the pilgrimage's tradition.
Santiago de Compostela, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque architecture, relies heavily on tourism. In the previous year, 242,179 individuals completed the Camino Francés route, a six percent increase from the year before. The peak pilgrimage season typically runs from May to October, with 79 percent of pilgrims choosing these months.
The local tourism board has established a "code of good practices" to guide visitors. This code emphasizes "acoustic quality," urging pilgrims to "Celebrate your arrival respectfully, not making too much noise. Store your walking stick to prevent noise pollution and damage to the pavement." It also reminds visitors that the cityscape is not a picnic area or campsite, encouraging them to experience Santiago as a gastronomic capital.
Earlier this year, a British pilgrim died after falling into a river near Puente la Reina while attempting to cross an improvised bridge. The 64-year-old's body was found in the Robo River in May. This incident highlights the inherent risks associated with the pilgrimage, separate from the concerns over pilgrim conduct.