Travel, Santiago de Compostela
Understanding the Camino de Santiago: The Walk of Saint James
Tracing the Ancient Pilgrimage Path
More popular in Europe than the United States, the Camino de Santiago and the Kumano Kodo in Japan are the only two walks registered as cultural heritage sites by UNESCO. Though I have long considered myself a seasoned traveler, this journey opened new experiences and challenges. The Camino de Santiago is more than just a walk; it is a journey of self-discovery.
The last Camino de Santiago I completed was on October 2022. We ended up at Santiago de Compostela on November 1, 2022, in time for a holiday. For that last year, I have been thinking of doing it again. For reasons unknown to me yet, but something I hope to find along the way.
What is the Camino de Santiago?
The Camino de Santiago is a pilgrimage in Spain comprising several routes, eventually taking you to your final destination, the cathedral of Santiago de Compostela in the gorgeous city of Santiago de Compostela. This catholic tradition is now open to everyone from all walks of life and for different reasons. This tradition has it that this route has been taken by pilgrims beginning at least in the middle ages.
It is one of the three great pilgrimages of Christendom. The other two are Israel and Rome.
A Short History
One of Jesus’ apostles was Saint James (Santiago in Spanish). In the early days of Christianity, Saint James, including the rest of the apostles, began their mission of evangelization by traveling the world and spreading the good news. In their travels, Saint James ended up evangelizing throughout Spain. Thus he is known as the patron saint of Spain. He eventually returned to Judea, where he was later martyred (beheaded).
His body was eventually returned to Spain, got lost, and was once again discovered several hundred years later. With the discovery of his remains, a Cathedral was built in his honor. His relics still remain in the church, visited by the faithful daily.
How do you get there?
There are several routes and trails to get to Santiago de Compostela. The most popular official one is the French route which starts in the southern French city of Saint Jean de Port. This route is approximately 761.8 kilometers and takes about 45 days.
There are other routes, such as the Portuguese route, which takes you walking up the coast of Portugal until you reach Santiago de Compostela. Other routes begin in the city of Seville in the Andalusia region of southern Spain. There is also the primitive route, which is believed to be the first route taken by the first pilgrims and King Alfonso II.
Other unofficial routes can start as far back as Germany, Sweden, and countries across Europe. One could say the Camino begins at their home. For the genuinely adventurous pilgrims, they walk from Turkey or as far as Israel and beyond. One can only imagine.
What happens on the Camino?
Some of the things that you experience, (1) walking 15 to 20 km a day, or maybe even longer, (2) walking in the rain, mud, getting soaked, (3) not knowing where to sleep that night, (4) carrying a backpack yourself the entire time, (5) getting blisters, (6) Walking up steep inclines for hours (7) Physical and Emotional intensity of the challenges. Imagine looking at the same boardwalk for a few days without a change in scenery. Your mind begins to calm down.
As you pass the different towns, villages, and cities, well-wishers will wish you a good journey by saying, “Buen Camino.” The Camino by itself is also a gastronomical experience as you try the different cuisines. My personal recommendation is “Pimiento de Padron” (Padron Peppers). How can a simple dish of peppers fried in Olive oil and salted be that delicious?
Through these challenges, you will find it very rewarding. You begin to meet people from all walks of life and at different stages. They become your friends. You also start to find connections in people you would not have thought of. One would receive a positive realization as they view things around them, as their heart is touched.
Everyone has their own Camino; you will find yours.
What do you see at the Camino?
One of the familiar sights you will see is stone markers and yellow arrows indicating the way to Santiago de Compostela.
Reasons to do it.
You will also experience an awakening, whether it is spiritual or not. Challenge yourself physically and emotionally. You will be able to connect with people from all walks of life and make new friends. Upon completing the Camino de Santiago, you will experience different cultures and cuisines and feel accomplished.
Remember that the Camino is a personal journey, and everyone’s experience will differ. Embrace the journey and enjoy the adventure.
