Stage 13: Burgos - Hornillos del Camino

Burgos, city of the Cid Campeador, was founded in 884 by Count Diego Rodríguez Porcelos. It currently has a population of approximately 200,000 inhabitants. It was the seat of Franco's government until 1938. The city is full of beautiful architectural examples.

It is the perfect place to rest if you like history and architecture. If you can only visit one place in Burgos, we recommend you to visit the Cathedral. It is the best example of medieval artistic genres and styles. If you bring your pilgrim's credential, you can get a 50% discount on the entrance fee.

The cathedral of Santa María de Burgos dates from the 12th century and follows a Gothic architectural pattern. In its interior are kept architectural, pictorial and sculptural treasures of incalculable value. Among them, the tomb of the Cid Campeador.

If you are staying near the cathedral, it will be easy to join the Camino at the Puente de Malatos, walking along the river on the north side, where there is a path for walkers and cyclists. If not, you can always look for the Camino's scallop shell signs that will lead you to the bridge on Calle Fernán González, then Calle del Emperador and then Calle Villalón.

The walk from Burgos is beautiful and quiet. There are two steep climbs and descents in succession from the Rabe de las Calzadas. Most of today's hike is gravel and dirt farm roads.

Today there are two long sections without guaranteed water. From Rabe de las Calzadas to Hornillos, a distance of 8 km, where there are no villages or water sources. Be sure to stock up on water in Bercianos and Fromista.

Hornillos is a small village with one main street, Calle Real, and only 66 inhabitants.