A sort of halo surrounds the visitor going to Cape Finisterre. From the very first moment you feel like stepping into a world full of symbolism, and even mysticism. In fact, there is more to Finisterre than what you see. Feel the beauty and peace Finisterre offers you in simple details like the sun dropping into the ocean, the wind blowing on your face, or the water meeting the land as you walk around the lighthouse.
In ancient times, the Celts and Romans carried out rituals on this promontory that juts almost 2 miles into the sea. Nowadays it's the pilgrims’ turn, taking the last steps of their trip to Finisterre. After the pilgrimage comes to an end, pilgrims fulfill various local traditions, symbolically putting an end to the Way of the Stars, marking the start of a new life and atoning for their sins.
The first tradition is bathing in the waters of Langosteira Beach. The goal is to seek purification before reaching the next stage.
Afterwards, admiring the wonderful sunset from the top of Cape Finisterre (469 feet) has become a widespread tradition. Some people like to carve in stone the number of miles walked during their pilgrimage.
There is a common custom among pilgrims of burning their clothing and leaving their boots there, but it is worth remembering that there is a fire ban in the Cape surroundings, and any item left behind only contributes to marring the natural landscape above which Finisterre Lighthouse rises.