What is the story behind the Camino?
What is the story behind the Camino? Pilgrims originally started coming to this location from all across Europe to witness the reported tomb of the apostle Saint James, son of Zebedee, known as “Santiago” by Spanish Catholics. The alleged remains of Saint James were interred in this location sometime after his recorded death in 44 A.D.
What happens at the end of the Camino?
For the majority of people who walk the trails, the end is in sight when you reach the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela, in the Plaza de Obradoiro. This is where you will find other pilgrims gathering, celebrating and recounting their Camino stories.
What is the end goal of the Camino de Santiago?
The Camino de Santiago — literally the Way of St. James — is Europe's ultimate pilgrimage route. Since the Middle Ages, pilgrims have walked hundreds of miles across North Spain to pay homage to the remains of St. James in the city named for him, Santiago de Compostela.
Is the Camino a Catholic thing?
Is the Camino just for Catholics? Absolutely not. While the tradition is originally Catholic, nowadays most people walk the Camino for other reasons than a spiritual pilgrimage.
How did the Camino change you?
In short, how exactly did I change? The answer is simple: I became infinitely better at being present; at sitting with anxiety, boredom, discomfort of any kind, and getting out of the way so it can run its course and something more productive or poetic can come in its wake.
Why do Catholics walk the Camino?
The Camino is a network of pilgrimages leading to the cathedral of Santiago de Compostela. There, according to tradition, lie the remains of St. James the Great—one of the first apostles called by Jesus, and the first to be martyred.
Why do people leave rocks on the Camino?
Leaving Your Burden Behind: A Camino Tradition You see, pilgrims often carry a rock from home in their backpack as they walk. The small rock symbolizes a burden. And, somewhere along The Way, pilgrims leave their burdens behind.
How long does it take to walk the Camino de Santiago?
To walk the classic Camino Francés route from St-Jean-Pied-de-Port or Roncesvalles to Santiago de Compostela, most people require between 4-6 weeks, however, the time needed depends on your daily mileage and whether you take any rest days.