It is impossible to even begin to understand the medieval mind without delving into the topic of pilgrimages. Long, arduous, and often dangerous pilgrimages were an ever-present part of life in the Middle Ages. These epic, holy routes across Europe provided both an adventurous holiday and an opportunity to explore one’s devotion to God.
Among the most renowned of these spiritual journeys was the Camino de Santiago, a network of paths traversing Europe, all leading to the sacred remains of Saint James in Santiago de Compostela, Spain.
Let’s depart on a historical walk along the medieval Camino de Santiago, discovering what it meant to be a pilgrim in those tumultuous times.
If we leave you feeling inspired to walk the route for yourself, please check out our full selection of Camino Walking Tours.
Origins of the Pilgrimages
The Camino de Santiago, known as the Way of St. James, has its roots in the early 9th century, following the discovery of what was believed to be the tomb of Saint James the Greater. This discovery, authenticated by the Church, ignited a fervour across Christian Europe.
Kings, peasants, and everyone in between began making the arduous journey to Santiago de Compostela. The pilgrimage was more than a spiritual quest; it was a testament to faith and penance, a journey for seeking salvation. As its popularity soared, so did the support structures along the route, fostering a unique ecosystem-centred around the needs of the pilgrims.
For context, it’s worth noting that pilgrimage routes played a significant part in medieval European economies. In fact, the relics of a saint could attract so much interest and, in turn, what was essentially tourist business that there were several cases of Furta Sacra (“holy thefts”) with churches stealing relics from one another.
To learn more about the culture of medieval pilgrimages, we recommend reading Geoffrey Chaucer’s Canterbury Tales. This text is more than an entertaining piece of literature; it’s a window into medieval attitudes surrounding faith and an insight into what life was like on a pilgrimage route.
The Journey Itself in the Middle Ages
Medieval pilgrims traversed various routes, the most famous being the Camino Francés, starting from the Pyrenees in France. Others embarked from their doorstep, traversing diverse terrains across Europe. These pilgrims came from all walks of life, united by faith and the search for spiritual or physical healing.
Despite their faith, the journey was fraught with challenges. Banditry, disease, and the harsh elements tested the pilgrims’ resolve. Yet, these hardships often strengthened their spiritual commitment, embodying the medieval belief that suffering brought them closer to God.
A Pilgrim’s Life on the Camino
Life on the Camino was a blend of hardship and unexpected kindness. Pilgrims relied on the hospitality of monasteries, hospices, and fellow Christians for sustenance and shelter. These rest stops were more than mere lodgings; they were spiritual sanctuaries offering respite and a sense of community.
The journey itself was slow, with pilgrims covering around 15 to 20 kilometers a day, leaving ample time for reflection, prayer, and camaraderie. The Camino also acted as a cultural conduit, where ideas, art, and commerce flourished, influenced by the diverse backgrounds of the pilgrims.
Today, many pilgrims will carry a Camino book with them, collecting stamps along their journey. In the Middle Ages, it was common for pilgrims to buy shells and lead alloy pilgrim badges to memorialise their having completed the journey. These historical badges are often unearthed today in areas where medieval pilgrims once gathered.
Impact and Legacy of the Route
The Camino de Santiago was a was a catalyst for significant socio-economic and cultural changes during the Middle Ages. Towns and cities along the pilgrimage routes prospered, evolving into bustling centers of trade and culture. The constant flow of pilgrims necessitated the development of infrastructure such as bridges, roads, and inns, leaving an enduring mark on the landscape.
Artistically, the Camino influenced the spread of Romanesque and Gothic styles, evident in the numerous churches, cathedrals, and monuments that dot the route. However, as the Middle Ages waned, so did the popularity of the pilgrimage, due in part to political, social, and religious upheavals. Despite this decline, the Camino’s legacy endured, a testament to its profound impact on European history and culture.
Begin Your Camino Adventure…
The Camino de Santiago, a medieval journey of faith, hardship, and discovery, continues to inspire pilgrims from around the world. It reminds us of a time when travel was a perilous but enriching endeavour, a true test of one’s spirit and faith.
Today, modern pilgrims walk these same paths, albeit under different circumstances, yet the essence of the Camino remains unchanged. It’s a journey that transcends time, linking us to the countless souls who walked these routes in search of salvation, healing, and understanding.
Browse our selection of Camino Walking Routes to begin your own pilgrimage. If you have any questions, please get in touch.
