Camino de Santiago
Ribadeo, Gateway to Galicia on the Northern Way
Ribadeo is the gateway to Galicia along the Northern Way (Camino del Norte), a historic pilgrimage route declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Every year, thousands of pilgrims cross the estuary via the Puente dos Santos to begin their journey to Santiago from here. This is the starting point of a 193.2 km route that blends heritage, nature, and spiritual reflection.
The Ribadeo Stage
Distance
190,3 km
Difficulty
Media
The first Galician stage of the Northern Way offers a beautiful blend of coastal scenery, historical heritage, and the long-standing tradition of hospitality. The route passes through the port and historic center of Ribadeo, continues past squares lined with Indiano-style buildings, and skirts former pilgrim hospitals. As the trail progresses, it winds through rural landscapes and centuries-old Jacobean towns until reaching Lourenzá.
Port and Historic Center
The Camino begins at Ribadeo’s port and climbs along Amando Pérez Street into the historic center. Here, pilgrims walk through a town shaped by centuries of maritime and commercial activity. Notable landmarks include the old Customs House (1726), the Casa de Abaixo, and the Pazo de los Miranda.
Plaza de España and Indiano Architecture
After passing through Plaza de Abaixo—the former civic heart of the town—the route reaches Plaza de España. Here, buildings such as the Pazo de Ibáñez, the Torre de los Moreno, and the Convent of Santa Clara reflect Ribadeo’s architectural wealth and its Indiano legacy.
Santa María del Campo and Pilgrim Hospitality
The Church of Santa María del Campo, with medieval roots and Franciscan tradition, is a reminder of Ribadeo’s historic hospitality. Nearby Villafranca del Bierzo Street was home to a pilgrim hospital dating back to the 12th century.
San Lázaro and the Path to the Countryside
The route continues to the Chapel of San Lázaro, the last vestige of another historic pilgrim hospital. From here, the Camino leaves the urban area and enters the rural landscape.
Parishes and Sanctuaries
The trail crosses the parishes of Ove, Covelas, and Arante. In A Ponte (Arante), the Sanctuary of Our Lady of the Virtues—featuring mural paintings and votive offerings—stands out as a place of tradition and deep devotion.
An Ancient Road to Lourenzá
From A Ponte, the Camino follows an ancient route toward Lourenzá, winding through rural scenery and small villages where traditional ways of life are still preserved.