Maria’s Way

Maria’s Way is a short documentary about a Spanish woman named Maria who greets pilgrims in front of her house, as they travel the long and ancient pilgrim trip of Camino de Santiago.

The Camino de Santiago is a network of pilgrims’ ways (or pilgrimages) leading to the shrine of the apostle Saint James the Great in the cathedral of Santiago de Compostela in Galicia in northwestern Spain, where tradition has it that the remains of the saint are buried.

Many follow its routes as a form of spiritual path or retreat for their spiritual growth. The pilgrimage is also popular with hiking and cycling enthusiasts and organized tour groups.

Maria sits by the side of one of these travelled roads behind a rickety, homemade stall, her expression is a blend of forbearance and exasperation.

She greets passers-by and invites them to stop, to spend a few minutes with her as they continue on down the road.

Here they’ll get a chance to catch their breath or perhaps share a story with Maria.

These random encounters with the passing strangers allow us to catch a glimpse of the modern pilgrim.

Despite encountering some difficult pilgrims throughout her day, María nobly continues her task.