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.

Through the Ages, Word spread of this sacred resting place. Christian pilgrims around the world undertake a strenuous journey to pay their respects and seek spiritual consolation.

Various routes to Santiago have emerged over the years. The scallop shell is a metaphor – its lines represent the different routes pilgrims travel from different parts of the world, all walking trails to one point – the tomb of Saint James in Santiago de Compostela. As the saying goes “All Roads lead to Rome“.

However, legend goes that St James’ body was transported to Spain in an angel-guided ship. Upon landing on the Spanish coast, the ship surprised a wedding party, scaring a rider and his horse into the water. The power of St. James miraculously lifted the horse and rider, then covered in scallop shells, out of the water and deposited them safely on shore. The scallop shell became St James’ official symbol.

Historically, Camino de Santiago was a religious pilgrimage. Today, Camino de Santiago is not exclusively for religious or Catholics.

The Camino is not only for the young and fit. I read that in 2023, a 95 year old Puerto Rican completed her fifth Camino de Santiago with several generations of her family (source: Santiago’s road).

When we were walking through San Paio to A Lavacolla, we met a family of 3 generations walking the Camino together.

Pilgrims have to purchase a “The Pilgrim’s passport” (Credencial) which provides details regarding the registration of their participation. Click here to purchase a passport. Alternatively, some Camino planning organisation will arrange with the first hotel to distribute the “passport” to the pilgrim.

Use your mobile device to scan the QR code. Upon registration, record the generated alphanumeric code onto the “passport”.

Stamps or seals can be obtained from Cafes, Bars, Churches, Post Office, Town Halls, Accommodations, Shops and Pharmacies. Some establishments do not mind providing the stamp even if you do not patronise their store. If you are in a store and do not see a stamp around, just ask politely “sello por favor?” Do remember to thank them by saying “Gracias” or “Muchas Gracias” if a stamp is imprinted without a requirement of purchasing anything at the store.

The Compostela is a religious document. Today, pilgrims are given an option if they would like to obtain a Compostela (Camino certificate) for completing the Camino. Strictly speaking, the Compostela can only be issued by the Pilgrim’s Reception Office at Santiago de Compostela to those who make the journey with “religious or spiritual reasons, or at least an attitude of search”.

The last 100km of Camino Frances from Sarria to Santiago de Compostela is the most popular route. Most pilgrims would attempt this final 100km before attempting the other routes.

Upon presentation of the “passport” at the Pilgrim’s Reception Office, the Compostela will be issued free of charge. Pilgrims can have an option to request for a Certificate of Distance. The cost of the certificate is EUR3.

Tip: Poster storage tubes can be purchased at the Pilgrim’s Reception Office for EUR5,00. The storage tube is of very good quality and is sufficient in protecting the certificates from damage. For update information, please download Oficina del Peregrio Official website.