Pilgrimage of the Iron Cross

Iconic point of the Camino de Santiago. Historical pilgrimage, spectacular views, and tradition. A must-stop for tourists and pilgrims.

📍 Location and contact

  • Address: The Romería de la Cruz de Fierro takes place at the Cruz de Fierro (or Cruz de Ferro), located in the municipality of Santa Colomba de Somoza, in the province of León. It is an iconic point on the Camino de Santiago (French Way), near towns such as Foncebadón and Manjarín. Although the pilgrimage is organized by the Centro Galicia de Ponferrada, the physical location of the celebration is outside the municipality of Ponferrada.
    • 24722 Santa Colomba de Somoza, León
  • Date: The pilgrimage is held on the Sunday following Santiago Day (July 25), usually the last Sunday of July. In 2024, it took place on July 28.
  • Phone: For information about the pilgrimage, the most relevant contacts are:
    • Centro Galicia de Ponferrada: Main organizers of the event. +34 987 00 91 52
    • Santa Colomba de Somoza City Hall: Municipality where the Cruz de Fierro is located. +34 987 63 11 93
  • Social Media:
    • Facebook of Centro Galicia de Ponferrada: Main organizer; usually posts the poster and program.
    • Santa Colomba de Somoza City Hall: Sometimes posts information about the pilgrimage on Facebook or X (Twitter).

🕒 Schedule: The Romería de la Cruz de Fierro takes place the Sunday after July 25, with the program usually as follows:

  • Morning: Religious celebration, including the solemn mass, around 12:45 pm, according to the usual program of recent editions.
  • Afternoon: Festive events continue after the mass, without strict schedule, until the evening.
  • Pilgrimage Schedule (example 2025): 12:45 pm: Delivery of the “Romero de Oro” title and start of the solemn mass.

ℹ️ Additional Information: The Romería de la Cruz de Fierro (or Cruz de Ferro) is a traditional celebration held annually in honor of the Apostle James, the patron saint of Galicia and the Camino de Santiago. It takes place at the famous Cruz de Fierro, the highest point of the French Way.

  • Organization: It is organized by the Centro Galicia de Ponferrada, in collaboration with the Santa Colomba de Somoza City Council.
  • Activities: The festive program usually includes a solemn mass and social events, with the participation of local authorities and pilgrims attending the site.
  • Tradition: Hundreds of people gather at this iconic point of the Camino to commemorate the celebration.
  • Romero de Oro: During the event, the title of "Romero de Oro" is awarded to a prominent personality of the region.

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