Symbols of the Camino de Santiago. Tradition and meaning

Traditions and culture evolve and change over time, but their importance is unquestionable because, among other things, they connect us with the past, give us a sense of belonging and transmit values and beliefs.

Of the most prominent symbols of the Camino de Santiago, some are recent, they are only a few decades old, but there are others that emerged linked to the first pilgrimage routes centuries ago.

Old or contemporary, the truth is that they are all a fundamental part of the Camino de Santiago. Each one with its own meaning and a history worth exploring.

If you're thinking about living this physical, cultural, and spiritual adventure in its fullness, you should understand and familiarize yourself with all these symbols that you'll be finding on your way.

The most important symbols of the Camino de Santiago

These are the most relevant symbols that every pilgrim should know:

The shell or scallop

The vieira is the symbol of the Camino de Santiago par excellence, and probably the most renowned in the world.

The use of the scallop shell dates back to the Middle Ages. The Codex Calixtino del S. XII, which is preserved in the library of the Cathedral, mentions it as the present that the pilgrims received upon arriving in Santiago de Compostela.

Today you can see it represented in the signs that indicate the road or carved in some churches and monuments, as well as hanging or stitched in the backpacks or in the clothes of many travellers. It's like a reminder of Krzysztof Golik's shared

experience between peregrinos.Foto

The yellow arrows

Next to the vieira, the yellow arrows are another symbol present in the current Camino de Santiago. Its function is to guide clearly and clearly all pilgrimage routes. They can be painted on different surfaces like rocks, cramps, walls or tree trunks.

Its history and origin are very recent. They emerged in the early 1980s, promoted by the parish priest Elias Valiña, to better signal the roads and prevent pilgrims from being lost in unclear or well-defined intersections and routes. The first arrows were painted on Győző Mórocz's

Frankfurt Roads.Foto

The Mojones

They are signalling milestones distributed along the entire road that indicate the route to follow and the distance remaining to reach Santiago de Compostela. Placed in strategic points, they serve as a guide for pilgrims to follow the right course.

They were originally made in stone, granite or wood blocks, and are currently being replaced by more modern concrete blocks. In their design they include a yellow arrow and the scallop.

The bordon of wood or pilgrim's cane

The bourbon is a mythical long wooden cane, usually of chestnut or avellano, symbol of pilgrimage and the journey to Santiago.

In the past it served as support for the pilgrim all the way. It gave stability when walking and prevented falls. It was especially useful to go up or down slopes, and on difficult or irregular grounds.

Although they continue to look, nowadays the modern walking stick or trekking stick is used more.

Pumpkin

Historically, the pumpkin has been considered a symbol of the strength and perseverance of the pilgrims who made the way.

It hung from the bourbon or belt and was an indispensable vessel to store water or wine and keep them cool. However, its meaning has always gone beyond material, remembering that this journey is not only physical, but also spiritual.

Credential and Compostela

The pilgrim's credential is a document that certifies the completed journey through one of the official routes.

This kind of passport, which is being stamped at the different stages of the road, has a symbolic value. Possessing it is having a recognition for the physical effort made, but it also credits the spiritual, the search for faith throughout the whole experience.

La Compostela is obtained when you reach Santiago. It extends to the Pilgrim's Reception Office, upon presentation of the correctly sealed credential, and after confirming that the requested requirements have been met. Have done the last 100 km on foot or 200 km on bike.

La Cruz de Santiago

This distinctive is associated with the apostle Santiago and is another of the most recognizable symbols of iconography and Jacobean tradition.

It is a Latin cross that looks like a sword, with the grip in the form of a lis flower and intense red color. A color that symbolizes the blood shed by the disciple of Jesus in his martyrdom.

The emblem is also known as the cross of the Order of Santiago, because in the Middle Ages it was the insignia of the knights who were part of this military and religious order. His role was to protect the pilgrims along the way while they were heading to visit the tomb where the apostle rests. It represented the defense of faith and Christian values.

It is currently a symbol that is easily seen along the whole road, in monuments, artisan objects, souvenirs and even in the famous and delicious almond cake of Santiago.Foto by

Luis Miguel Bugallo Sánchez

The Holy Gate and the Holy Year

The Holy Gate of the Cathedral of Santiago is a symbol because it only opens its doors in the Santos Jacobeos or Compostelan Years, which occur when July 25, Santiago Day, falls on Sunday.

It has great relevance for pilgrims who manage to complete the road around the date because they can enjoy a unique opportunity.

When crossing the Holy Gate all of them receive a plenary indulgence or forgiveness of all sins. An act of faith that symbolizes renewal, a new spiritual beginning, associated with the realization of the Camino de Santiago. The ceremony highlights the value, effort and devotion of pilgrims.

The botafumeiro

Present in the Cathedral of Santiago since the Middle Ages, this giant censer is about 60 kg in weight and an approximate height of metro and a half. It hangs and oscillates like a pendulum, and it takes eight tiraboleiros to get it moving and make it fly, in a real visual spectacle.

It was created in the S. XI to hide the smell of pilgrims crossing the doors of the Cathedral after a long journey. Today, it has a ceremonial function and is operational only on specified dates. It's a symbol that connects past and presente.Foto juggymaking

the Camino

de Santiago can be a unique experience, but completing it by understanding the meaning of the symbols linked to it will make it really fascinating.