The story of an Ancient Path …
slow down
embrace the journey
reconnect
...and the unfolding of the modern Camino
Father Elías
Valiñas
The Camino de Santiago, was initiated as a spiritual pilgrimage in the 9th century (820AD) when the burial site of the Apostle James was found near the city of Santiago de Compostela. Legend says that after his martyrdom in Jerusalem, his body was transported to Spain — the land he had evangelized — and was buried there. This created a significant spiritual pilgrimage for many Christians from points all over Europe.
By the modern era, the Camino had lost its allure. In 1984 Father Elías Valiña (pictured here) took it upon himself to revive the Camino and drove from Roncesvalles in the Spanish Pyrenees across northern Spain to Santiago de Compostela painting yellow arrows along the way so that a new wave of pilgrims might walk the ancient route once again. When asked by the people what he was doing, he would reply, “I’m preparing for an invasion... of God’s people!” It’s probably due to his efforts that the Camino has survived and thrived today!
Camino numbers and symbols
There are currently some 49 trails in Spain alone that are considered part of the Camino de Santiago.
The complete French Route winds its way 490 miles from France to Santiago de Compostela.
The first recorded pilgrimage on the Camino was in 820AD, making it a 1200 year old spiritual pilgrimage.
On average, it takes about 35 days to walk the entire French Route from France to Santiago de Compostela.
LA VIEIRA
(THE SHELL)
Represents the many Caminos that all converge in the beautiful city of Santiago de Compostela. Life leads us down distinct paths, and if we are intentional to remain open to the promptings and nudges we receive along the way, they will lead us along our unique journey. We may take diverse paths on pilgrimage, but if we persevere on the path we will be led to our destination.
LA FLECHA AMARILLA
(THE YELLOW ARROW)
Along the Camino, you will see many yellow arrows pointing towards Santiago. You can’t get lost if you’re observant on the path. These arrows represent the wisdom of the “yellow arrows” along our journey of life. Paying attention to these on the path of life leads us along our way on a great adventure!
LA MOCHILA
(THE BACKPACK)
A necessary resource on the Camino, it symbolizes both the simplicity which allows us to move more nimbly but also the weight we tend to accumulate on life’s journey by way of hurts, disappointment, grief, betrayal and unforgiveness. Unless we unburden our souls, the walk will be long an arduous. The Camino helps you lighten the load.
LOS HITOS
(THE MARKERS)
Along the way we often want to know if we’re making progress. These kilometer markers are also milestones of a sort. They mark the forward progress as the pilgrim walks toward the destination. Life also gives us milestones which help animate the soul and keep us forging forth toward the prize.
