The Pilgrim Mass in Santiago de Compostela, Spain, is a significant religious ceremony held in the Cathedral The pilgrims Mass in Santiago de Compostela. It is the final destination for pilgrims who have completed the Camino de Santiago, a popular pilgrimage route in Europe. The Pilgrim Mass is a way for pilgrims to give thanks for their journey and is a central part of their experience. During the mass, the famous Botafumeiro, a large incense burner, is often swung across the cathedral's transept, adding to the ceremony's grandeur. The mass usually takes place at noon and is a special moment for pilgrims who have traveled from various starting points to reach Santiago de Compostela.

What is the Botafumeiro?

The Botafumeiro is an impressive ‘censer’ or thurible that measures 1.50 metres and weighs 53kg and one of the most striking rituals at the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela.

It takes eight men, known as ‘tiraboleiros’, to set the Botafumeiro in motion and make it swing dramatically over the nave of the Cathedral 20 metres high, while releasing its fragrant incense smoke.

When in full swing, the Botafumeiro can reach speeds of up to 68kms per hour and is a sight to behold. For many pilgrims this is one of the most touching moments of their pilgrimage journey to Santiago de Compostela and can be an emotional experience.

While there have been various thuribles in the history of Santiago de Compostela Cathedral, the first reference to the Botafumeiro appears in the Codex Calixtinus, written in the 12th century, where it is referred to as ‘Turibulum Magnum’.

Today, the Cathedral has two thuribles: the one generally used is made of brass and dates to 1851, and there is also a replica one made of silver.

The Botafumeiro is used during the entrance procession or at the end of the Eucharist at the Cathedral’s most important solemnities and liturgies.


-What is the purpose of the Botafumeiro?-


Origins and purpose

According to the Cathedral, the purpose of the Botafumeiro is: “To symbolise the true attitude of the believer. In the same way that the smoke from the incense rises to the top of the temple's naves, so must the prayers of the pilgrims rise to reach the heart of God

When can I see the Botafumeiro?

The Botafumeiro thurible is used during mass at the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela on the following special dates in the religious calendar:

6th January: Epiphany
Resurrection Sunday
23rd May: The Apparition of the Apostle-Clavijo
Pentecost
25th July: The Martyrdom of Saint James
15th August: Assumption of Mary
1st November: All Saints
November: Feast of Christ the King
8th December: The Immaculate Conception
25th December: Christmas Day
30th December: Transfer of the remains of the Apostle
The thurible is used sometimes during Pilgrim Mass but there is no guarantee or specific schedule. In general, it is used at the 7.30 Pilgrim Mass each Friday, except on Good Friday.

However the use of the Botafumeiro can be requested and booked by pilgrimage groups. More details about how to make a request from the Cathedral can be found on the: SANTIAGO CATHEDRAL WEBSITE.



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