Camino de Santiago: a spiritual journey of pilgrims

What is Camino de Santiago?

The Camino de Santiago, or Way of St. James, is a historic pilgrimage route that leads to the tomb of St James in Santiago de Compostela, Spain. The route has deep roots dating back to the Middle Ages, when thousands of pilgrims travelled to worship the saint, considered the patron saint of Spain and one of the twelve apostles of Jesus Christ.

Shell - Symbol of the Camino de Santiago.

The pilgrim's shell is the universal symbol of the Camino de Santiago, used to identify pilgrims who have completed their journey to the tomb of the Apostle James in Santiago de Compostela. It was originally worn to distinguish returning pilgrims from those who had not yet reached the city.

Over time, the shell has become a common symbol of the Camino de Santiago, which can be seen on signposts and markers along the route.

There are several theories about the origin of this symbol:

• Practical use: Pilgrims used the shells to drink water on their journey.
• Souvenir trade: Local traders sold shells to pilgrims as souvenirs.
• Legend of the miracle: According to legend, the disciples of St James arrived by boat in Galicia, where they witnessed the miraculous rescue of a groom during a wedding. The groom and his horse were covered in shells when they got out of the water. This event is believed to have reinforced the shell's association with the pilgrimage.

History and origins of the Camino de Santiago

The history of the Way of Santiago, or Camino de Santiago, dates back to the early Middle Ages, when in the ninth century the remains of St James were discovered near the modern city of Santiago de Compostela. Legend has it that after his death, St James, one of the twelve apostles of Jesus Christ, preached in Spain and was buried there. Soon after the discovery of the tomb, pilgrims wishing to worship the saint began to gather to this place, and from then on the route began to take shape.

At first the path was unofficial, but over time it became more organised. In the eleventh and twelfth centuries, the Way of Santiago gained importance among Christians as one of the main pilgrimage routes, along with Jerusalem and Rome. Pilgrimages became an important spiritual experience as well as an opportunity for people from different regions of Europe to meet and exchange culture and ideas.

Over the centuries, the route has evolved with the construction of churches, monasteries, hotels and special shelters for pilgrims - albergues. The route passed through different regions of Spain and other countries, such as France and Portugal, and had several popular routes that offered unique landscapes and historical sights.

By the end of the Middle Ages, however, pilgrimages became less popular, and the Way of Santiago was forgotten for a time. But in the twentieth century, especially since the late 1980s, it regained popularity among both religious pilgrims and tourists seeking physical challenges and spiritual reflection. Today, the Way of Santiago is not only a historical but also a cultural phenomenon, attracting people from all over the world.

What is the purpose of the Camino de Santiago?

The purpose of the Santiago Way is multifaceted and individual to each pilgrim. For most, it is an opportunity:

• Make a religious pilgrimage and deepen your faith.
• Clear the mind from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and connect with nature.
• To test physical and mental capabilities.
• Meet new people and cultures.
• Find answers to life's important questions and make sense of yourself.
• Just take a break from the routine and reboot.

Camino de Santiago main routes

There are several types of Camino de Santiago, each with its own characteristics and advantages:

• The French Way (Camino Francés): The most popular and well-equipped route, starting in the French town of Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Pore and running through northern Spain. Ideal for beginners.
• Portuguese Way (Camino Portugués): The second most popular route starting in Portugal, usually from Lisbon or Porto. Offers gentler scenery and the opportunity to enjoy Portuguese culture.
• Northern Route (Camino del Norte): A route along the northern coast of Spain, offering stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and more challenging terrain.
• The Primitive Way (Camino Primitivo): Considered the earliest pilgrimage route, it originates in Oviedo and passes through the mountainous regions of Asturias. The most difficult, but also the most scenic.
• English Way (Camino Inglés): A shorter route starting in Ferrol or La Coruña, and historically used by pilgrims from England and Northern Europe.

Preparing for the Camino de Santiago

Thorough preparation is the key to a successful and enjoyable pilgrimage. Here are a few key aspects to pay attention to:

• Physical preparation: Regular training, hiking and endurance exercises will help you cope with the daily stresses. A few months before you start the Camino de Santiago, increase your walking distance to get used to the long treks.
• Equipment for the Camino de Santiago: Pack comfortable walking shoes, light clothing (including mackintosh), sleeping bag, rucksack and first aid kit. Don't forget sunscreen, a hat and trekking poles. Choose gear that is tested and comfortable for you.
• Obtaining the Credencial (pilgrim's passport): The Credencial is your pass to the albergue. It can be obtained from churches, tourist offices and pilgrims' associations. The Credencial is stamped during the journey to prove that you have travelled the route.
• Budget Planning: The cost of the Camino de Santiago depends on the itinerary you choose, the season and your needs. On average, it costs between 20 and 40 euros per day for accommodation and food. Think about your budget in advance and take enough cash with you.
• Language learning: Knowing Spanish, even at a basic level, will make your journey much easier. You will be able to communicate with locals, order food and solve problems.
• Albergue/hotel reservations: During the peak season (summer), reservations for albergues on the Camino de Santiago are in high demand. It is advisable to book in advance if comfort is important to you.

Where to stay: choice of albergues and overnight stays

There are many options for overnight stays on the Camino de Santiago, and the choice of albergues and other places to stop depends on your itinerary and budget. Here are some recommendations for choosing places to stay overnight:

1. Albergues (Hostals): These are the most popular and affordable options for pilgrims. They offer budget accommodation, often with shared rooms. Albergues usually have a kitchen, showers and toilets. Be sure to book early during peak season to avoid difficulties with accommodation.
2. Hotels and Inns: If you prefer more comfort, you can stay in inns or hotels. They offer private rooms with amenities, which can be a good option to relax after a long day on the road.
3. Camping: For those who want to save money and enjoy nature, camping can be a great option. Some of them offer tent sites as well as equipped cabins.
4. Private flats and hostels: In larger cities and tourist destinations, you can find private flats or hostels. This is a good way to meet locals and other pilgrims.
5. Rural houses and agritourism: In some regions, you can find options to stay in rural houses that offer home-cooked food and the opportunity to experience a traditional way of life.

Useful tips on choosing a place to spend the night:

• Location: Try to choose albergues or hotels that are within easy reach of your route. This will make it easier to get a morning start.
• Reviews: Before booking, read the reviews of other pilgrims. This will help you choose a more comfortable and better quality place.
• Prices: Consider your budget. Albergues typically cost between €10 and €20 per night, while hotels can be considerably more expensive.
• Amenities: Check for essential amenities such as kitchen, laundry and Wi-Fi if you need them.

Remember, what matters most is comfort and the opportunity to rest well so that you can continue your pilgrimage with renewed vigour.

Food on the Way: what and where to eat

Eating on the Way is an important aspect to consider in order to maintain your strength during your pilgrimage. Here are some recommendations for meals and places to eat:

Breakfasts: Many albergues offer breakfast, which may include bread, jam, coffee or tea. If breakfast is not included, you can buy food from the supermarket.

Light Snacks: Nuts, dried fruit, energy bars are great options for snacking on the go.

Lunches and dinners: In small towns and villages you can find cafés and restaurants serving local cuisine. Try dishes such as paella, tapas or local soups. Very often these establishments have a menu del dia, which costs between 11 and 15 euros. This amount includes: First course, second course, drink, coffee and/or dessert.

Vegetarian and vegan options: Many establishments offer vegetarian and vegan options. You can also find many plant-based products in the shops.

Home-cooked food: Rural homes and agritourism often offer home-cooked food, allowing you to sample traditional dishes and learn more about the local culture.

Useful Tips:

• Listen to your body: Don't overload yourself and take breaks when necessary.
• Connect with other pilgrims: Share your experiences and advice.
• Enjoy every moment: Be open to new experiences and allow yourself to savour the beauty of the world around you.
• Don't be afraid to ask for help: Locals are always willing to help pilgrims.
• Plan your day: Think out your route for the day in advance and make sure you have enough food and water, especially if you plan to pass through areas with limited shopping opportunities.
• Taste local produce: Not only is it delicious, but it also helps support the local economy.
• Don't forget to hydrate: Drink enough water, especially on hot days.
• Respect the environment: Try not to leave rubbish behind and respect nature.

Following these tips will not only keep you energised, but you'll also be able to enjoy the culinary traditions of the regions your journey passes through.

When is the best time to go the Camino de Santiago?

The best time to take the Santiago Way is in spring and autumn. These seasons have a more favourable climate: temperatures are usually comfortable and nature is particularly beautiful. In spring you can enjoy the blossoms and greenery, and in autumn you can enjoy the bright colours of the foliage. However, don't forget to consider your physical abilities and preferences to choose the most suitable period for your pilgrimage. It is also worth paying attention to possible weather conditions and the number of tourists at this time of year.

Pilgrim stories: inspiring examples

The stories of pilgrims who have travelled the Camino de Santiago are full of inspiration and courage. Here are some examples that may motivate you:

1. John's story: John, a 65-year-old retired man from the UK, decided to follow the Santiago path after his wife passed away. He was looking for a way to cope with grief and find his place in life. The journey helped him not only to heal, but also to make new friends among other pilgrims. He shared his impressions and life experiences with everyone he met along the way.
2. Laura's story: Laura, a young woman from Spain, has travelled the road to celebrate her 30th birthday. She decided to leave all the hectic worries behind and just enjoy nature and new encounters. Along the way, she met other travellers and together they created unforgettable memories. This experience taught her to appreciate the simple joys of life.
3. Mikael's story: Mikael from Norway decided to take to the trails to test his physical abilities and prepare himself for more challenging hikes. He started with small routes, gradually building up his workload and self-confidence. The Santiago Way was a real challenge for him and he proudly completed it, discovering a new love for an active lifestyle.
4. Sarah and Pete's story: Sarah and Pete, a young couple from Australia, set off on a journey as a way to strengthen their relationship. The journey taught them how to work as a team and support each other in difficult moments. They remembered many funny situations and grew closer to each other, which made their trip unforgettable.

These stories show that the Camino de Santiago is not only a physical challenge, but also an opportunity for personal growth, self-discovery and the creation of new connections. Each pilgrim comes with his or her own story and leaves with new experiences and lessons.