Stage 23: Villavante-Astorga

Stage 23 of the French Way takes pilgrims from Villavante to the historic city of Astorga, offering a day that combines the journey through the Castilian countryside with the arrival in a city rich in cultural heritage.

Towns through which the stage takes place

• Villar de Mazarife: This small enclave marks the beginning of the stage, providing pilgrims with a gradual introduction to the day of walking through open fields.
• Villavante: Along the way, walkers will pass through Villavante again, a reminder of the connection between the history of the Camino and the rural landscapes of the Castilian plateau.
• Astorga: The final destination of this stage, Astorga, is a city with a notable historical and architectural heritage, notable for its cathedral, the Episcopal Palace and its relationship with pilgrimage.

Monuments to see along the route

• Church of Santiago in Villar de Mazarife: This Romanesque church is a point of interest for pilgrims, with its historical architecture and its connection to the Camino.
• Ecce Homo Hermitage in Villavante: Walkers can visit this hermitage, which stands out for its architectural simplicity and serene atmosphere, providing a space for reflection.
• Cathedral of Santa María in Astorga: Upon arriving in Astorga, the Cathedral of Santa María is an impressive monument. Its Gothic architecture and stained glass windows are notable, and a visit to the cathedral is a significant experience for pilgrims.
• Gaudí’s Episcopal Palace in Astorga: Designed by architect Antoni Gaudí, this palace is another architectural gem in Astorga. Pilgrims can explore its modernist design and learn about Gaudí’s connection to the St James Way.

Stage 23 of the French Way provides pilgrims with a varied experience, from the open fields of Villar de Mazarife to the cultural wealth of Astorga. With historical monuments and places of devotion along the way, this stage remains an essential part of the journey to Santiago de Compostela.