The Cruz de Ferro or Iron Cross is an iconic symbol of the Camino de Santiago. It is a reminder of the hardships and challenges that pilgrims face on their journey.
The Iron Cross also represents the spiritual renewal that pilgrims seek on their journey. The tradition of leaving a stone at the foot of the Iron Cross is a powerful symbol of the pilgrimage journey and the spiritual transformation that can occur.
If you are one of those Pilgrims and your walking the Camino Frances you’ll pass it on your way. Here are some of the things you need to know about the Cruz de Ferro ‘the Camino Iron Cross’.
What is the Cruz de Ferro
The Cruz de Ferro is a large Iron cross that stands at the highest point along the Camino de Santiago.
It’s believed to be one of the oldest markers on the trail and said to have been erected by Charlemagne in the 8th century as a ‘marker post’ or Camino symbol of belonging to the Way.
The Cruz de Ferro is actually a tall wooden pole with a large iron cross at the top, standing at 1,504 meters above sea level. It has become an iconic symbol of the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage.
It has since become an important place of spiritual reflection and pilgrimage for many modern day Pilgrims that leaves some feeling changed and renewed.
Where is the cruz de Ferro
The Cruz de Ferro stands at the base of Mount Irago between the towns of Foncebadón and Manjarin in the province of Leon Spain and is a very significant stopping point for all Pilgrims.
Its significance comes from its long history as well as its connection to many spiritual and religious symbols. Check out the topography on the Camino app Wise Pilgrim.
What is the highest point of the Camino Frances ?
The Cruz de Ferro stands at 1,504 meters above sea level, making it the highest point of the Camino Frances pilgrimage and one of the most important stopping points on a pilgrims journey.
Why Do Pilgrims Visit the Cruz De Ferro?
Pilgrims visit the Cruz de Ferro to seek spiritual connection and transformation along their pilgrimage journey.
It is believed that visiting the Cruz de Ferro signifies a release of burdens and the start of a renewed life and there are some traditional things that Pilgrims do.
The tradition of Cruz de Ferro
Most pilgrims visiting the Cruz de Ferro follow the tradition of carrying a small stone with them throughout their pilgrimage.
Mine was a small stone I found on beach in Turkey numerous years before and have always kept in a bedside drawer not knowing what to do with it. When I planned my Camino I instantly knew which stone to take with me.
Pilgrims have been leaving a stone at the foot of the Cruz de Ferro for centuries and is know part of the Camino de Santiago folklore.
It is a way for pilgrims to symbolically leave their burdens behind and seek spiritual renewal. It’s a symbol of the tings we want to get rid off.
What is the significance of the Cruz de Ferro
The Cruz de Ferro represents the challenges that pilgrims face on their journey and serves as a reminder of the hardships that they have overcome.
The act of placing a stone at the foot of the Iron Cross is seen as a symbolic gesture of leaving behind one’s burdens and seeking spiritual renewal, whether physical or emotional.
Why do people carry and place rocks on the Camino?
The most common tradition on the Camino de Santiago is to carry a stone from home and leaving it at the Cruz de Ferro, but one Pilgrims will carry multiple stones leaving them along the way at points that mean something to them alone.
I personally left another small stone for my dad, who had passed away, and one day I’ll visit that special place again to see his stone.
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How to Prepare for Your Visit
To fully appreciate your visit to the Cruz de Ferro, it’s important to prepare yourself in advance. Make sure to find out where exactly the cross is located before departing for your pilgrimage. Have the best Camino Frances Guidebook will help with this research.
Once you arrive to the Iron Cross, take some time and space to reflect on the inner questions and feelings that arise and allow yourself to deeply connect with the energy of this place as its a very spiritual place for some Pilgrims.
Make sure you have your stone and its accessible and not at the bottom of your backpack.
Some Pilgrims bring photos and letters to leave at the foot of the cross or pin them on the pole.but I would advise this.
On the day we passed through the local council workers were clearing up the wet letters and photos that were blowing around and just taking them away as rubbish. Bring your stone.
How far is Cruz de Ferro from Santiago de Compostela ?
The Cruz de Ferro is approximately 226 kilometers (140 miles) from Santiago de Compostela, the final destination of the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage.
From this point the journey is approximately 9 to 12 days walk dependant on your pace etc.
How to get to the Cruz de Ferro
The Cruz de Ferro is accessible by foot and can be reached by a short hike from the nearby town of Foncebadón.
The path is well marked and the journey offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
It’s the highest point of the Camino Frances and on the day we passed through was very windy and foggy in spells.
What is the spanish name for the Cruz de Ferro
Cruz de Hierro is the Spanish name for the Iron Cross of the Camino de Santiago, which is the iconic symbol of the Cruz de Ferro.
Is there a Chapel at the Cruz de Hierro
The Ermita de Santiago is a small chapel located near the Cruz de Ferro but was closed when we visited. I understand it is only opened on special occasions.
The Cruz de Ferro Prayer
The Cruz de Ferro is a place of prayer and reflection for many pilgrims. It is a symbol of the challenges and hardships that people face on their journey.
Many pilgrims come to the Iron Cross to offer a prayer or leave a stone behind as a symbol of their spiritual journey.
O Lord, may the stone which I bring to this holy place be a sign of pilgrimage to Santiago.
When I reach my final judgment, tip the balance of my life in favor of my good deeds.
I lay down this token which I carry from [starting point].
Please forgive my sins and help me carry my burdens in life. Amen
Enjoy some great drone footage of the Cruz de Ferro from the guys at Hikingways.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Cruz de Ferro is an important landmark on the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route.
The elevation of the Cruz de Ferro and its location in Spain make it a unique and iconic symbol of the Pilgrimage on the Camino de Santiago.
The Cruz de Ferro prayer, the tradition of carrying and placing rocks, and the Camino Iron Cross are all powerful symbols of the spiritual journey that pilgrims take on the Camino de Santiago.
Whether you are a pilgrim or a tourist, the Cruz de Ferro is a place of reflection and a reminder of the importance of faith, hope and renewal.
Buen Camino
