Why is the shell a symbol of the Camino?


Why is the shell a symbol of the Camino? WHY IS THE SCALLOP SHELL IMPORTANT TO PILGRIMS? The scallop shell is said to be a metaphor, its lines representing the different routes pilgrims travel from all over the world, all walking trails leading to one point: the tomb of Saint James in 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.


What is the symbol of the Camino?

The scallop shell is one of the most iconic symbols of the Camino de Santiago and today it is used, along with the yellow arrow, to guide pilgrims heading to Santiago de Compostela along its many different routes.