Trips of a Lifetime: El Camino de Santiago

Santiago de Compostella

For the first of our new series of Trips of a Lifetime we present the El Camino de Santiago.

Translating as The Way of St. James, this was an important Christian pilgrimage during Medieval times on which a plenary indulgence (an absolution of sin) could be obtained. Traditionally, the pilgrimage begins in Paris and runs to Santiago de Compostela. Modern pilgrims, however, have the option of several potential starting points with many begining in Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port which spans 769 km through France and Spain. The entire trip of which requiring approximately one month to complete.

Traditional aspects of the pilgrimage include:

Hecho Valley Village

Crendencial

This passport-like document is stamped with the official St. James stamp of each town pilgrims travel through on their journey. They are necessary to document the journey and ultimately to receive their Compostela at the end. They can be purchased from a Spanish tourism agency.

Compostela

A certificate of completion that is earned after walking a minimum of 100 km or cycling at least 200 km. A stamped Credencial is needed to prove the journey made.

The Shell of St. James

The scallop shell is the traditional symbol of St. James and was traditionally worn by pilgrims traveling to his shrine.

Refugios

Hostel style accommodations that may be free are available along the route.

Though the El Camino de Santiago is no longer pursued purely by the devout it retains a time honored quality that is rare in travel today. If you have some time, a few weeks at least, and are physically able, you might want to consider traveling on your own pilgrimage. Let's face it, you can't beat the price and the journey affords a glimpse of Spanish and French countryside that no tour bus can offer.

Filed Under: Destinations