Lugo

Camino Primitivo

To end of camino
99.2
Altitude
465

As Casas da Viña

6.30

Lugo

7.00

Seoane de San Xoán do Alto

Services
ATM
Yes
Bar
Yes
Bus
Yes
Bus Terminal
Yes
Correos
Yes
Grocery
Yes
Hospital
Yes
Medical Center
Yes
Pharmacy
Yes
Public Pool
Yes
Train
Yes

Lugo is the capital of the province of Lugo and one of the most populated cities in Galicia. The once defensive ‘muralla’ that surrounds it was built by the Romans in the 3rd century and is as tall as 15 meters in parts. If you have not had your fill of walking, make your way to one of the many staircases or ramps (one directly in front of the Cathedral) and enjoy an elevated view of the city from the pedestrian path that encircles the old town. It is over 2km long, has 71 towers, and counts 10 gates.

Notice

There is a stretch of 10km west of Lugo without any services for pilgrims. Stock up before you leave.

Fiesta

During the last weeks of June, the city celebrates Arde Lucus or Burn Lugo. The residents dress in full Roman regalia and celebrate Lugo's origins. If you are lucky enough to pass through at this time, allow for an extra day to take in all of the activities, but be advised that the celebration draws a crowd of people nearly a half a million strong and book your room early.

History

As is the case with most places dating back to the Romans, the actual origin of the name Lugo is not clear. Some argue that it is named after Lugos, the God of Light. However back when the Romans were first conquering these parts (13 B.C. ), it was called Lucus Augusti, and some argue that the name comes from the Latin Lucus, or sacred grove. When gods and topology vie for the namesake, nobody wins.

The walled city is obviously well placed, perched high above the three rivers (the Minho, Rato, and Chanca) that provide for natural boundaries. Its prosperity survived for many centuries but it was abandoned by the middle of the 8th century. A slow revival began and by the middle ages, the pilgrimage to Santiago had once again brought prosperity to the region.

Fueled by agriculture it has continued to grow right up to the present day and now covers an area much larger than the Romans had envisioned.

The Road

The camino leaves the walled city at the gate opposite the Cathedral and proceeds downhill along the Rúa de Santiago. Halfway down the hill it bears right onto the Rúa Calzada da Ponte. It crosses a divided boulevard and descends all the way down to the río Miño.

The Ponte Romano carries you over the river and once on the other side, it turns right to follow along the river bank. After passing the Iglesia de San Lázaro it turns up to the left and follows the road to pass under the N-540. There is one more large intersection ahead and it is a simple matter of crossing straight over it. From here you will follow along the paved road, the LU-P-2901, all the way to San Román de Retorta.

Landmarks along the way include the Santuario de Santo Matías and the hamlets of Seoane de San Xoán do Alto 92.2 and Carrigueiros 90.7.

City Map

Comments

All Caminos App User (not verified)

Nuevo hostel en Lugo muy limpio la cocina muy bien equipada el personal muy agradable sin duda muy recomendable

All Caminos App User (not verified)

Wonderful kitchenette, large aseos, and private bunks with sheets and towels!
I hit the jackpot taking a chance on a new albergue/pension in Lugo.

Staying here now and am still so stunned how nice it is and for less than other albergues in Lugo!

Camino de Sant… (not verified)

We did not realize that there is no reception person, and therefore we could not have our bags transferred from this location. We did not originally plan on having luggage transfer.

Camino de Sant… (not verified)

Cafe Centro, we wen in because we were hungry and mid- timed our meal time, Churros and chocolate at the end were great, the rest of the meal was very expensive, basic and the service extremely poor.

All Caminos App User (not verified)

Super friendly host, large clean, bright, fully Reno’s room. Excellent stay in central Lugo, steps to everything historic, cafes & shops.highly recommend

Camino de Sant… (not verified)

Hostal Portón is incredible. Individual beds, modern bathrooms, laundry machine. Amazing shared spaces to hang out. Equipped kitchen. Very friendly owner who loves pilgrims. Loved our stay here.

Camino de Sant… (not verified)

If you show your pilgrim credential you get a Cathedral tour via an audio guide for €4
Its interesting and also includes a museum

Camino de Sant…

Restaurante Chino Shanghai

Camino de Sant…

If you at this point of your journey is in the mood for some other food, than the usual Spanish kind, then try the Chinese restaurant Resturante Chino Shanghai outside the old city.
It does look a bit sad and abandoned but the food is freshly made and really great!!!
Don’t miss out on the mixed vegetables. well. just don’t miss out on it!

Camino de Sant…

I payed €20 for semi dorm bed. The check-in is high tech. You get a keycard! Hot showers with soap and a real towl. Everything is modern and new. So while very convennient it has to develop character. Still highly recommend.