Unique Stamps on the Camino de Santiago: From Gas Stations to Hidden Gems

The Camino de Santiago is not just a pilgrimage; it’s a journey filled with stories, surprises, and special moments. One of the delightful traditions of the Camino is collecting stamps on the Pilgrim Credential. While many of these stamps come from expected places like albergues or churches, there are some truly unique and unexpected stamps that pilgrims can collect. Let’s explore some of these special stamps that add a touch of whimsy to the Camino experience.

1. The Gas Station Stamp

One of the most talked-about stamps on the Camino is from a gas station. Yes, you read that right!

• Location: Close to the town of Azofra.
• Story: The owner, recognizing the importance of the Camino and wanting to be part of the tradition, started offering stamps to passing pilgrims. It’s a testament to how the Camino spirit touches everyone, even those in the most unexpected professions.

2. The Wine Fountain Stamp

Imagine a fountain that dispenses wine! The Monastery of Irache has a wine fountain for pilgrims, and they offer a unique stamp to commemorate this delightful experience.

• Location: Near Estella.
• Story: The fountain is a gesture of goodwill from the Bodegas Irache winery. Pilgrims can get a stamp after enjoying a sip (or two) of wine.

3. The Templar Castle Stamp

The Templar Castle in Ponferrada offers a stamp that’s steeped in history.

• Location: Ponferrada.
• Story: The castle, once a stronghold of the Knights Templar, is a reminder of the rich history of the Camino. The stamp features the iconic Templar cross.

4. The Cruz de Ferro Stamp

One of the highest points on the Camino, the Cruz de Ferro (Iron Cross), is a place where pilgrims leave stones representing burdens or prayers. There’s a stamp to mark this significant ritual.

• Location: Between Foncebadón and Manjarín.
• Story: The tradition of leaving stones dates back centuries. The stamp captures the essence of this poignant Camino moment.

5. The 100km Marker Stamp

There’s a special stamp for reaching the last 100km of the Camino Frances, a significant milestone for every pilgrim.

• Location: Near Sarria.
• Story: As the minimum distance required to receive the Compostela, reaching this marker is a moment of celebration and reflection.

6. The End of the World Stamp

Once believed to be the end of the known world, Finisterre is a coastal extension of the Camino journey. The stamp from here is a memento of reaching the ocean after the long walk.

• Location: Finisterre.
• Story: Many pilgrims continue to Finisterre after Santiago for closure, making this stamp a symbol of completion and new beginnings.

Conclusion

The Camino de Santiago is filled with unique experiences, and these special stamps are a way to capture those moments. Each stamp tells a story, adding layers of memories to the pilgrim’s journey. As you walk the Camino, keep an eye out for these and other unique stamps, and let them serve as reminders of the magic and wonder of the Way.