The origin of Camino de Santiago can be traced back to the 9th century in Northwestern Spain. St James, one of Jesus’ apostles, preached the Gospel in the present day Galicia. On his return to Jerusalem, he was executed by King Herod Agrippa (successor of Herod the Great) in 44AD.

It was believed that his followers transported his remains to Northern Galicia where they laid until being discovered. Upon hearing this, King Alfonoso II ordered the construction of a religious chapel to honor the apostle. The creation of this shrine in the 9th century marked the beginning of Santiago de Compostela and the Camino de Santiago.