The signage that never arrived: Vigo
The lack of signage in several sections of the Camino de Santiago in the area of Vigo once again generates criticism among pilgrims and Jacobean associations. Despite announcements and commitments made in recent years, on the ground the reality remains the same: confusing points, few signs and sections in which the pilgrim has to orient himself by intuition or by resorting to his mobile phone.
For those who walk, this problem is not minor. The Camino is based precisely on the simplicity of following arrows and marks. When these references fail, an essential part of the experience disappears and the feeling of insecurity increases, especially among foreign pilgrims.
A contrast that outrages many walkers
Criticism does not focus only on the lack of performances, but also on the feeling of abandonment that many pilgrims perceive. The Camino de Santiago is one of the greatest cultural and tourist symbols of Galicia, and yet, at some points, the most basic thing—orienting the walker correctly—remains unresolved.
Those who travel the route agree that there is no need for large infrastructure or spectacular investments. Sometimes something as simple as painting arrows, checking signs, or keeping the layout clear is enough.
The direct harm to the pilgrim
When the signage fails, the pilgrim loses time, deviates or ends up walking on roads or areas that are not part of the official route. This not only affects the experience, it can also pose a risk.
Many walkers comment that in some sections the only way to advance safely is to follow mobile applications or GPS tracks, something that breaks the traditional spirit of the Camino, designed to walk freely, without depending on technology.
An image that should not be given
The Camino de Santiago attracts thousands of pilgrims from all over the world every year and is one of the great cultural references of Spain. For this reason, many consider that situations like this damage the image of a historical route that should be an example of care and attention.
Among the pilgrims, a simple phrase is repeated that summarizes the general feeling: the Camino does not need promises, it needs maintenance.
