THE PILGRIM'S ROUTES

A pilgrimage is a journey which a person sets out on to enlighten themselves and to get a new perspective on life.  The hardships encountered on the way, all add to the experience.  In a way the final destination is unimportant and is just a goal.  There are pilgrimages undertaken around the world and the more strenuous  the route, the more inner strength is found and at journeys end a sense of fulfillment has been achieved.  The cathedral in the city of Santiago de Compostela is supposed to contain the remains of the apostle James.  This may sound strange but it is widely believed that James was sent to Spain to preach the gospel after the death of Christ. He is said to have seen a vision of the virgin Mary in Ceaseraugusta on the banks of the river Ebro .  The virgin appeared on a pillar, the "Nuestra Senora del pilar" which was preserved and still remains in the Basilica de Nuestara Senora in Zaragossa Aragon. When he returned to Judea, he was beheaded by king Herod Agrippa  The story goes, that when St James was executed in AD44, after a series of miracles, his body was taken by sea to Padron in Galicia by  two of his disciples.  The remains were then transferred to their present location in Santiago de Compostela which has become the third most important place in Christendom after Jerusalem and Rome.

In the middle ages pilgrims from all over Spain  and parts of France, made the journey to Santiago.  The pilgrims routes passed through many towns and villages many of which became havens where the pilgrims could rest.  There were hospitals built in some towns specifically to aid the pilgrims.  The symbol worn by the pilgrims was the scallop shell and in France the scallop is known as the Coquille St Jacque.  A whole industry was set up in Santiago de Compostela to aid the pilgrims.  There were streets dedicated to providing everything from shoes and clothes to the walking sticks and scallop badges.

Modern day walkers are considerably better prepared than their ancient forerunners. Stout boots, weatherproof clothing, plenty food and accommodation make the experience more of a holiday and not the ordeal it once was. 

Pilgrim Statue in Santiago de Compostela

In recent times it has become customary for walkers completing one of the routes, to burn their boots. This isn't compulsory so don't worry about those new boots you've just bought for the trip.  Upon completion, walkers are given a certificate.