Table of Contents
What does the word Compostela mean?
Compostela is reported to mean field of stars from campo and stella. I have written about St James, the Patron Saint of Spain which the capital Santiago de Compostela is named after.
What is Compostela known for?
This famous pilgrimage site in north-west Spain became a symbol in the Spanish Christians’ struggle against Islam. With its Romanesque, Gothic and Baroque buildings, the Old Town of Santiago is one of the world’s most beautiful urban areas. …
Why do people go to Compostela?
The Camino was historically a religious pilgrimage to the tomb of St. James and today many people (about 25%) still walk for a religious or spiritual reason. And if you are Catholic and walk during a Holy Year, such as 2021, you can earn a plenary indulgence from the Church.
What was the main purpose of pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela?
When the pilgrimage began in the Middle Ages, the aim was to arrive in the sacred city of Santiago de Compostela. There was no official starting point, but because it was safer for people to walk together, pilgrims created common roads and paths.
Why do pilgrims carry a shell?
The Scallop Shell is used as a symbol of direction along the Camino, pointing pilgrims towards Santiago. Pilgrims also wear this symbol themselves which further enhances the camaraderie along this great walking trail.
What is a Compostela on the pilgrimage to Santiago?
A compostela is the “pilgrim certificate” you get at the end of the walk if you’ve completed 100 kilometers (about 62 miles) or more on foot. If you are not Catholic, but did the Camino for ‘spiritual reasons’ you can get a compostela.
Why is Santiago de Compostela important to Christianity?
It is believed that James’ disciples carried his body by sea to the Spanish coast, and that it was ultimately buried at Santiago de Compostela. Thus, during Europe’s Middle Ages, the pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela became one of the main Christian pilgrimages related to the worship of holy relics.
Which St. James is buried in Santiago?
The cathedral is the reputed burial place of Saint James the Great, one of the apostles of Jesus Christ.