The Way of Sant James

• He states that actions of this kind reinforce the potential of the Camino, in order to make 2017 another record year for pilgrims, like 2016, and to prepare for the best Xacobeo (Holy Year) in 2021
• He highlights the creation of an interpretive centre which offers a multimedia presentation, illustrates the importance of this building, takes visitors on a journey through medieval Galicia and provides an overview of the vicissitudes experienced by the castle
• He mentions other activities to reinforce the potential of the Camino, such as the refurbishment of Pazo de Xelmírez, a mansion on Obradoiro Square; and the transformation of the former nursing home in Carretas Street into the International Pilgrim Welcome Centre

The president of the Xunta de Galicia, Alberto Núñez Feijóo, today described the restoration of Pambre Castle as part of the ‘heritage of all Galicians’ which will help boost the status of the routes of the Way of St. James. ‘This is the most iconic monument in the district of Ulloa, one of the few examples of medieval military architecture still remaining in Galicia,’ he asserted. He highlighted that actions such as these reinforce the potential of the Camino, in order to make 2017 another record year for pilgrims, like 2016, and to prepare for the best Xacobeo (Holy Year) in 2021: ‘We expect the best Holy Year in history.’

During a visit to the castle, Feijóo recalled that the Xunta purchased this tower in 2011, to prevent the neglect of such an important element of the community’s heritage. It then undertook an ambitious refurbishment project.

He went on to specify that, in addition to restoration of the walls of the fortified site, the work of archaeologists made it possible to discover such elements as the fortress’s cistern and various tombs attached to the chapel, which is older than the castle. ‘In addition, the stone road that led to the main entrance was restored and the residential area was refurbished,’ he added.

He also highlighted the creation of an interpretive centre which offers a multimedia presentation, illustrates the importance of this building, takes visitors on a journey through medieval Galicia and provides an overview of the vicissitudes experienced by the castle.

On the subject of the aim of reinforcing the potential of the Camino, the president of the Xunta mentioned other actions such as the refurbishment and improvements on Pazo de Xelmírez, a mansion on Obradoiro Square in Compostela; the transformation of the former nursing home in Carretas Street into the International Pilgrim Welcome Centre, also in the Galician capital; renovation of Casa Pasarín, a house in the historic district of A Fonsagrada; and refurbishment of Monterrei Castle.

Feijóo reiterated the Galician government’s commitment to continue working to promote living and active municipalities, economically, as well as in terms of culture and tourism.