11 April 2024

Which destinations do modern pilgrims prefer?

In the past, travelers from various religions offered spiritual pilgrimages to religious sites. In Europe, the pilgrimages of the 11th and 12th centuries had a profound impact on Christian practices, representing devotion or fulfillment of vows. These journeys were seen as experiences in themselves, sometimes more significant than the destination, as they followed paths that had been shaped centuries before. Today, travelers seek spiritual energy in various religious and spiritual journeys worldwide, through contact with nature and slow movement. They simplify their lives and discover the roots of the world, delving into culture and history.

Destinations of Modern Pilgrims

In our era, pilgrimage journeys are continuously organized by top travel agencies. Depending on travelers' preferences, some of the most popular destinations include England, Spain, Greece, Italy, Bulgaria, Ireland, China, Japan, Peru, and Sri Lanka.

Depending on the goals and available timeframe, the three main destinations chosen by modern pilgrims are:

The Old Way - England

One of the exceptional pilgrimage routes ever discovered in the United Kingdom is the Old Way, crafted by the British Pilgrimage Trust. This journey spans approximately 380 kilometers, from Southampton to Canterbury. This path, first recorded in 1360, is mapped on the Gough map, Britain's oldest road map. Crossing undulating hills and historic urban centers, the route guides pilgrims through southern England, passing sacred sites and offering many rest points. The duration of the journey is estimated at two to three weeks.

Camino de Santiago -Spain

The absolute adventurous journey ever recorded involves about 400,000 brave pilgrims crossing northern Spain through the well-known spiral, sacred paths. The majority of these travelers start from Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port in southwestern France and traverse mountains and vineyards towards Spain, aiming for the imposing cathedral of Camino de Santiago. This route, consisting of 830 kilometers, is usually completed in 30 days, but some choose to start from more accessible points, making week-long or even shorter trips. Many of the travelers who attempt it choose this route for the joy of adventure, without being motivated by religious orientation.

The Pilgrimage to Tinos

Pilgrimage to Tinos is an experience that doesn't require much time, specialized skills, or equipment, but it offers the traveler an exciting encounter with the Greek Orthodox Church and a profound sense of reverence. Every year on August 15th, faithful from all over the world succumb to respect and reverence as they traverse the distance from the azure port of Tinos to the Chora, approaching the church of Panagia Evangelistria, adorning the island's peak with the icon of Panagia. The atmosphere is charged with emotion and religious fervor, while visitors have the opportunity to enjoy the beauty of the blessed Greek island.

An Exploration into Today's Gastronomy

Spiritual pursuits are not just an occasion for reflection and solitude, but also an opportunity for discovering flavorful delights. The return to simplicity and tradition is the primary concern of modern pilgrims. From sampling local dishes in taverns in Greece to exploring vineyards in France or even seeking out specific varieties of honey in Italy, travelers uncover tastes that represent the culture and tradition of each place.

As for pilgrimage journeys via the sea, they have gained increasing popularity. The authorities of the Camino de Santiago, for example, now recognize and promote maritime pilgrimages as a sustainable alternative. Sea journeys are seen as a "slow travel" experience, offering pilgrims the chance to connect more deeply with the spirit of the place and its tradition. Sea journeys open up new horizons for spiritual experience and renewal.

Information sourced from: travel.gr

https://www.travel.gr/how_to_travel/travel-news/poy-taxideyoyn-oi-sygchronoi-proskyni/