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This famous pilgrimage site in north-west Spain
became a symbol in the Spanish Christians' struggle against Islam. Destroyed by
the Muslims at the end of the 10th century, it was completely rebuilt in the
following century. With its Romanesque, Gothic and Baroque buildings, the Old
Town of Santiago is one of the world's most beautiful urban areas. The oldest
monuments are grouped around the tomb of St James and the cathedral, which
contains the remarkable Portico de la Gloria.
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Santiago de Compostela was proclaimed the
first European Cultural itinerary by the Council of Europe in 1987. This
route from the French-Spanish border was – and still is – taken by pilgrims
to Santiago de Compostela. Some 1,800 buildings along the route, both
religious and secular, are of great historic interest. The route played a
fundamental role in encouraging cultural exchanges between the Iberian
peninsula and the rest of Europe during the Middle Ages. It remains a
testimony to the power of the Christian faith among people of all social
classes and from all over Europe.
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The three major pilgrimage
destinations in Christianity since medieval times are Jerusalem, Rome and
Santiago de Compostela, in north-western Spain. Santiago is Spanish
for "St. James". He was one of Christ’s twelve Apostles. The pilgrimage
route with World Heritage status starts in France, and stretches for more
than 800 kilometres into Spain. It would take more than a month to walk the
entire route. After crossing the Pyrenees, pilgrims reach the town of
Roncesvalles. They can receive a Pilgrim Record at the pilgrimage office -
where it gets stamped.
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St. James’ remains were
discovered in Santiago at the beginning of the 9th century. The
local cult associated with the saint spread throughout Europe in the 11th
century. It was believed all sins would be forgiven by making a trip to
Santiago. The Maundy ritual here hasn’t changed since medieval times: the
pilgrims’ feet are purified with water and there is a prayer for the
pilgrim’s safety during the journey. Meals and accommodation are available.
Everything is run on a voluntary basis at the various stops on the way.
Monte do Gozo, or the Hill
of Joy is just 5 kilometres short of the Cathedral. This is where pilgrims
get their first glimpse of the city. The Santiago cathedral welcomes all
pilgrims. Tens of thousands of them have laid their hands on this pillar - a
groove has been worn in the stone. The pilgrims pay their respects to St.
James depicted at the top of the pillar. A mass to celebrate him takes place
on the 25th July each year.
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The spirit of medieval times lives on with the pilgrimage to Santiago de
Compostela.
The Historic Centre of
Santiago de Compostela was inscribed on the World Heritage List in 1985
The
Route of Santiago was inscribed on the
World Heritage List in 1993.
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