Xacobeo 2027 is a Holy Year. Are you ready?
Every Holy Year is special because Santiago Cathedral opens its Holy Door, a tradition dating back to 1126.
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Tradition
Why is it a Holy Year?
A Holy Year in Santiago is one when 25 July, the feast of the martyrdom of Saint James the Apostle, falls on a Sunday.
Due to leap years, Holy Years follow a 6-5-6-11-year cycle. 2021–22 were the most recent Holy Years (extended due to the COVID-19 restrictions). 2027 will be the next Xacobeo Year, followed by 2032.
Key facts:
- A Holy Year occurs only 14 times each century
- The next Xacobeo Year will be 2032, in five years
- The 2027 Holy Year begins on 31 December 2026 with the opening of the Holy Door at Santiago Cathedral
- Want to experience the true spirit of the Camino de Santiago? Walk the Way in the next Xacobeo Year and discover it in a different way.
- Would you like us to help you plan it with no obligation?
History
Xacobeo 2027
Also known as Holy Year or Xacobeo Year , it dates back to the discovery of the tomb of Saint James the Greater (9th century), becoming, over the centuries, a major centre of pilgrimage and a religious and cultural landmark of worldwide significance, retaining its remarkable ability to draw people together to this day.
The Camino de Santiago has left its mark on millions of people who walk it each year, whether for devotion, a sporting challenge, personal growth or a connection with local culture and nature. The Xacobeo Years attract the most visitors. It is also still possible to receive forgiveness for sins through the Jubilee.
What should you know about walking the Way during a Holy Year?
Book early
Demand is higher, so secure your accommodation.
Choose a route that suits you
Based on your available time, fitness and experience.
Prepare well
Equipment, training and all the information you need.
Travel with experts
We help you every step of the Way.
Spirituality
What makes the Holy Year special?
The Holy Year has clear religious significance. Passing through the Holy Door, also known as the Door of Forgiveness, is just one part of the ritual for receiving plenary indulgences.
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Enter through the Holy Door
An act full of symbolism and tradition
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Attend the Pilgrim Mass
At Santiago Cathedral and see the Botafumeiro
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Experience a special atmosphere
More pilgrims, activities and an unforgettable atmosphere
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Discover Galicia
Culture, gastronomy and nature at their finest
Xacobeo 2027: Plan your Camino de Santiago trip
Jubilee
Receive your Jubilee indulgence
Receiving the Jubilee means obtaining the plenary indulgence or forgiveness of all sins granted by the Church. All pilgrims who visit the Apostle’s tomb in Santiago Cathedral during the Holy Year can receive the plenary indulgence. To do so, pilgrims must meet a series of requirements set by the Church, which we outline below:
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Visit Santiago Cathedral
Visit the Christian cathedral on any day of the Holy Year
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Say a prayer
Attend Holy Mass and say a prayer, as prescribed by the Roman Pontiff.
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Go to confession and receive Communion
Within 15 days before or after visiting the Cathedral.
Essential information
Xacobeo 2027 at a glance
Opening of the Holy Door
31 December 2026
Saint James’ Day
25 July 2027
How to get your Compostela
At least 100 km on foot or horseback, or 200 km by bike
Secure your accommodation
Book with Pilgrim now and get ahead of the crowds
Choose your route
We help you choose your Way
Way/Starting point
Distance
Crowds
Description
From Sarria
118 km
5 – 7 days
Very high
The busiest route, with the most services, better signposting and a lively pilgrim atmosphere.
From Tui
112 km
6 – 7 days
High
A good balance of atmosphere, services and fewer crowds.
Along the coast
112 km
6 – 7 days
Medium – High
A Way along the Atlantic with slightly fewer crowds.
From Vilalba
120 km
6 – 7 days
Medium
A less crowded Way, rich in history and scenic beauty.
From Ferrol
112 km
5 – 6 days
Medium
When you have a few days and want a historic route.
From Lugo
102 km
5 – 6 days
Medium – Low
To avoid the crowds, if you don’t mind a more physically demanding route.
Epilogue
64 km
3 – 4 days
Medium
To extend your Way to the Atlantic after reaching Santiago.
Choose your trip and leave the rest to us
Organised trips for Xacobeo 2027
Frequently asked questions about Xacobeo 2027
The Holy Door of Santiago de Compostela Cathedral will open on 31 December 2026 at 12 noon.
The Holy Door traditionally closes on 31 December. The closing ceremony is led by the Archbishop of Santiago and includes a reading of the Pope’s message, a procession through the cathedral, and the placement and blessing of the stones sealing the entrance until the next Jubilee.
2027 will be the next Xacobeo Year, followed by 2032, 2038 and 2049.
No. To receive the Jubilee indulgence during Santiago’s Holy Year, you don’t need to take a specific Way. You can reach Santiago de Compostela by any of the recognised routes of the Camino de Santiago. What matters is meeting the established requirements for pilgrimage and the Jubilee mentioned above.
The Compostela is a certificate confirming completion of the Way for religious reasons, covering at least 100 km on foot or 200 km by bicycle.
The Jubilee, or plenary indulgence, is a spiritual grace granted by the Church during a Holy Year and is subject to fulfilling the religious conditions mentioned above.
Yes. Someone can receive the Compostela without receiving the Jubilee, and can also receive the Jubilee without having completed a long Way route. However, they are not mutually exclusive, and you can receive both if you meet the requirements.
Probably yes. All signs suggest that Xacobeo 2027 will attract exceptionally large numbers of pilgrims, and higher demand usually means lower availability and higher prices, particularly for accommodation. Booking as early as possible is recommended.
Accommodation during the Holy Year
The number of pilgrims on the Camino de Santiago rises significantly during Holy Years, especially in July, as many pilgrims aim to reach Santiago de Compostela in time for the Saint James’ Day celebrations on 25 July.
Six years after the last Holy Year, and with growing international recognition of the Way, large numbers of pilgrims are expected.
Plan ahead and organise your Way so you don’t miss out on accommodation during this special year.
Don’t wait any longer!
Plan your Xacobeo now!
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At Pilgrim we provide all the planning and guidance you need to prepare for the Xacobeo Year and make the most of an experience you’ll probably never forget.
