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 Camino de Santiago

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A brief history

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Saint James
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Saint James is considered one of the twelve disciples of Jesus Christ. 

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Legend has it, that the remains of Saint James were found in North-western Spain, in the 9th century A.D.

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This devotion to Saint James spurred the development of a renowned pilgrimage route known as the Camino de Santiago. "Camino" translates to "way" in Spanish, and Camino de Santiago translates to  "The Way to Santiago de Compostela". 

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Cathedral construction
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This discovery prompted construction of a Cathedral to facilitate the pilgrimage.

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The construction was started in the 11th century and completed in the 12th.

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Codex Calixtinus
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The Codex Calixtinus was published in the 12th century.

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It acts as a guidebook, promoting the pilgrimage.

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The French Way rises
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It led to the rise of the French Way, marking people's safe pilgrimage to the Cathedral.

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The French Way is one of the most historic pilgrimage routes of the Camino de Santiago.

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Disturbances
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Wars in the 16 to 18th centuries caused disturbances in the passage of pilgrims.

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It led to a decline in pilgrimage and the number of pilgrims declined significantly.

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Golden age
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The pilgrimage revived in the late 20th and 21st century.

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The Camino regains popularity with people seeking spiritual renewal, adventure, and cultural immersion.

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Present day
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Camino de Santiago is now one of the most popular pilgrimages in Europe.

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There are many routes that take you to the Cathedral. Today it not only serves as a spiritual journey, but also a recreational one.

Signs and Symbols

You will see this signs and symbols on your Camino journey. Learning about these will help you on your journey. If you want to know more, you can go to our blog and read articles that will list out things in more detail

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Fun facts about the Camino 

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The scallop shell

This isn't just a pretty souvenir - it's the symbol of the Camino. Legend says it guided pilgrims to St. James' tomb, and now bright yellow scallop shells mark the routes.

Free wine fountain

Yep, you read that right. On the Camino Frances route, the town of Ayegui offers weary pilgrims a refreshing (and free!) glass of vino from a public fountain.

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Many caminos, one destination

The Camino de Santiago isn't just one path. There are over a dozen routes across Europe, all leading to Santiago de Compostela in Spain.

Holy year bonanza

Every year when St. James' Day (July 25th) falls on a Sunday, it's a special "Holy Year" in Santiago. Expect bigger celebrations and more pilgrims on the trail.

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The Camino goes medieval

The Codex Calixtinus, a 12th-century guidebook, is the OG Camino resource. It has maps, itineraries, and even local legends to keep pilgrims informed and entertained.

More than walking

While walking is traditional, you can also cycle (bicigrinos!), horseback ride, or even hike the Camino. Choose your adventure!

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Not just religious

The Camino is open to all. While many walk for religious reasons, it's a popular journey for self-discovery, cultural immersion, and enjoying the beautiful Spanish countryside.

Snack time on the Camino

Forget fancy restaurants, some of the best Camino treats are simple and delicious. Think fresh bread from local bakeries, sweet "tetilla" cheese, and energizing "pulpo a la feria" (octopus dish).

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