Motivations and meanings for Camino pilgrims

Abstract

While increasing in popularity, pilgrimages appear to be blurring their distinction with tourism. This research investigates the motivations and meanings behind contemporary pilgrimages along the Camino de Santiago in Spain and the Chemin de Saint Jacques in France. Using both face-to-face interviews and Facebook postings, several motivations and outcomes were identified. First, these pilgrimages often served as a rite of passage. Second, the journey provided an opportunity to disconnect from regular routines to embrace a simpler, slower pace of life. Third, pilgrims fostered a sense of connection to nature and to fellow humans. Fourth, most pilgrims derived a sense of accomplishment from their journey. Finally, for many pilgrims this journey became a part of their personal identity, and many memorialized their pilgrimage through memorabilia or tattoos. Overall, understanding the benefits of leisure is important to understand the benefits that experiences can provide to participants.

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