20th Stage: from Villadongos del Páramo to Astorga

At this stage the Route first takes pilgrims to San Martín del Camino, where is the site of an old hospital. Then the itinerary continues towards Hospital de Órbigo. In this town were held in 1434 the famous jousts organised by Suero de Quiñónez, during which he challenged many European knights. Pilgrims will find the church of San Juan, built by the Knights Hospitaller. After leaving this epic village the Route crosses Santibáñez de Valdeiglesias and leads pilgrims to San Justo de la Vega, where stands a Parish Church that contains a carving of San Justo from the 16 C, and a retable from the 17 C.

Finally pilgrims arrive at the end of the 20th stage along the Route, by reaching the episcopal town of Astorga. This historical and religious city, called Astúrica by the Romans, once had 25 hospitals. On it converge the French and the Plata Routes to Santiago. The extraordinary Gothic Cathedral, from the 15 C presides over the town. It has a Baroque façade and some Renaissance elements. The portada is typical of the Route. In its interior is a retable by Becerra from the 16 C.

The Episcopal Palace or Gaudi Palace houses the Museo de los Caminos, which displays pieces from all churches related to the Route to Santiago. Pilgrims can also visit the Roman and Medieval ramparts, the Roman jailhouse and confinements for slaves.