Sacred Paths. El Camino de Santiago.
- Editorial
- Aug 28, 2025
- 3 min read
The Camino de Santiago is a network of ancient pilgrimage routes that lead to Santiago de Compostela. Traditionally, it began from the pilgrim's own place of origin.
Existen diversas rutas sagradas por todo el mundo legado espiritual de la Humanidad.
The various official routes start at several common points, such as the route that begins from the village of Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port, known as the French Way, which extends over 790 km across northern Spain, or the routes more recognized for their tradition and beauty, such as the Northern Way, also known as the Camino de Santiago del Norte or the Coastal Way, which starts in Irún. It is a historical route that runs approximately 820 kilometers from Irún to Santiago de Compostela. The Primitive Way is the first route with historical references and was initiated by King Alfonso II in the 19th century to visit the tomb of the apostle James. Its starting point is the Cathedral of Oviedo.
The Primitive Way is the first route with historical references and was initiated by King Alfonso II
Other routes highly appreciated by pilgrims are the Silver Way, which starts in Seville, but can also begin at the last section, called the Sanabria Way, and from Granja de Moreruela. This route is known for its tranquility and authenticity, offering a very peaceful and spiritual experience for pilgrims.
Resting on the Way
There is information about resting places for pilgrims since the early 10th century. The Catholic Monarchs ordered the construction of the first hospital for pilgrims in Obradoiro, now a parador, to provide shelter for the hundreds of thousands of pilgrims arriving in Santiago from all corners of Christendom.
Monasteries and religious orders such as the Benedictines or the Knights Hospitaller established hospices to welcome pilgrims, creating an extensive network of hospitality along the various routes of the Camino. As the Camino de Santiago gained popularity, these hostels became places of gathering and coexistence among people of different backgrounds, cultures, and social classes.
Traditional hostels became places of meeting and coexistence among people from diverse backgrounds, cultures, and social classes.
Currently, traditional shelters remain as guardians of a rich history and culture of hospitality, offering accommodation and basic assistance to travelers, providing them with basic, physical, and spiritual support. These shelters not only provided a place to sleep but also medical care and emotional support, reflecting the importance of the Camino as a route of faith and devotion. These shelters do not accept advance reservations.
Family-run establishments and various hotels can be easily found along all routes of the Camino, helping pilgrims achieve their daily walking goals. They are established at an average distance of 20 to 30 km per day.
The Credential of the Camino de Santiago de Compostela.
The Credential is the document that succeeded the safe conduct passed to pilgrims in the Middle Ages, certifying their status as pilgrims and attesting to their passage through various towns along the Jacobean routes.
It is a folded triptych containing the pilgrim's personal details and boxes for stamps and seals on one side, and on the other, useful information about the Camino de Santiago, including maps and routes.
A spiritual path of self-discovery.
The Credential has two main functions: to facilitate access to establishments and accommodations by identifying the bearer as a pilgrim, and to certify that they have covered the necessary distance to receive the Compostela. It also allows access to special menus and discounts in some accommodations along the Camino routes.
Book Club & Travellers Circle.
From our Reading and Travel Circle, we propose to open a sacred space in motion from October 11 to 18, 2025.
More information
Bibliography.
A Pirigrim`s Guide to the Camino de Santiago. St Jean Pied De Port.
The Road to Santiago. Walking the Way to St. James. René Freund
