The Camino de Santiago

The Camino de Santiago

In 1987, the European Parliament declared the Camino de Santiago one of the first European Cultural Routes. This historic route crosses the border between France and Spain and has been the essential pilgrimage path to Santiago de Compostela from ancient times to the present. Along the way, there are approximately 1,800 buildings, both religious and secular, all of great historical significance.

This route played a crucial role in promoting cultural exchange between the Iberian Peninsula and the rest of Europe during the Middle Ages. It also bears witness to the importance of the Christian faith among people of all social classes across Europe. Santiago de Compostela is the third most important holy city after Jerusalem and Rome, one of Europe’s most significant cities, and a melting pot of diverse cultures.

The most traditional route of this pilgrimage is the well-known “French Way,” which crosses the Pyrenees Mountains. The two main entrances to the French Way — the Somport Pass and the Roncesvalles Pass — converge at Puente la Reina (named after the Queen whose name is linked to the bridge built in the 11th century by Mayor Quin), with both the Santiago Church and the Church of Cruz de los Milagros dating back to the 12th century.

Route of Santiago de Compostela

Must-visit reason: Europe’s most famous pilgrimage route

Continent where the attraction is located: Europe【Europe】

Country/Region where the attraction is located: Spain[Spain]

Province/State where the attraction is located: Castile and León, Aragon, Navarre, La Rioja, and the Galicia Autonomous Communities [Castile and León，Aragon, Navarre, La Rioja and Galicia Autonomous Communities]