Astorga

Astorga is the historic capital of the Maragatería region and has been an important crossroads since Roman times. The Via de la Plata route joins the Camino Francés here, so pilgrims arriving from the south merge with those walking the Francés. You may notice the town getting busier from this point onwards, and it is worth acknowledging the camaraderie that comes with that convergence of paths.

The town is famous for two landmarks that pilgrims will spot immediately: the Gothic cathedral and the Palacio Episcopal designed by Antoni Gaudí. The palace looks wildly out of place in this small Castilian city, and that is part of its considerable charm. Both are worth a visit if you arrive early enough. The Museo del Chocolate is a fun bonus, since Astorga has a long tradition of chocolate-making that stretches back centuries.

Astorga sits at a turning point on the Camino. Behind you is the flat Meseta. Ahead are the mountains of León, including the iconic Cruz de Ferro and the steep descent into Molinaseca. This is a good place to rest, resupply, and prepare for what is coming.