Why, at a certain point in life, do we feel the need to take on the role of a pilgrim and set out for distant destinations? Why struggle for hours along trails and country roads with a backpack on our shoulders? Everyone has their own reasons, and I—having gone on so many walks (often alone)—no longer ask myself that question.
I just set off.
But every time, I’m amazed by the extraordinary gifts I receive.
This was also the case with the Bonaria Pilgrimage, which I walked in its entirety in June.
It’s a relatively new pilgrimage but well-organized and structured, excellently marked, and with an excellent system of hospitality along the route, including homestays.
The 14 stages from Olbia to Cagliari wind through the beautiful landscapes of Sardinia’s less-touristy areas. The routes aren’t particularly challenging (at least for me), although in some cases the distance and the heat proved to be factors not to be underestimated.
Little by little, you find yourself immersed in the daily life of the local communities and in contemplating the natural beauty that characterizes these places.
What really sets this journey apart, though—its true added value—are the people I’ve met.
At every stop, I never felt left out; on the contrary, I was welcomed with warmth and friendship.
The relationship I’ve developed with many of them has truly amazed and moved me.
There is an important spiritual dimension to the Bonaria Pilgrimage, but what has stayed with me most are the small gestures of kindness, the glances, the smiles—in short, the humanity that, fortunately, still exists in these places.
So perhaps the answer to the question “Why are we on this journey?” lies in this aspect of encountering others, which we hope will make us better people.
Thank you all again for making my experience on the Camino unforgettable.
Mauro Pellegrino from Cusano Milanino
