A lot of us probably came to know this place from Paulo Coelho books as the “road to Santiago”. The “road to Santiago” in fact doesn’t refer to a single route. It can start from multiple departure points such as a pilgrim’s home but end in one destination - the sepulcher of St. James’. And yes, the pilgrims walk for several days and even weeks or months!
So ok, we arrived by bus. Haha..
When you arrive in Santiago de Compostela via bus, your view would be the back of the Cathedral.
Then you have to walk along this modern pathway -
And along the way, you'll see some stalls selling assorted stuff. The highlight of the visit is seeing the facade of the Cathedral. It's one of the most beautiful churches I've seen. I was awestruck.
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| Basilica of Santiago de Compostela |
It's so beautiful that people just lie down in front of the Cathedral and appreciate its beauty.
As we entered the Cathedral, there were pilgrims on their way out.
Pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela heightened when in 1119, Santiago de Compostela was granted a so-called Jubilee or Holy Year privilege by Pope Callistus II. A holy year is when the feast commemorating the martyrdom of St James (July 25) falls on a Sunday which happens every 6, 5, 6 and 11 years. Pilgrims who complete a journey to the Basilica in a Holy Year are able to obtain several spiritual rewards. The next holy year falls in 2010.
This is the Puerta santa or holy door – constructed in the 16th century. It is through this doorway that pilgrims enter the cathedral during holy years.
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| Holy Door |
By the entrance, you'll find a statue called Master Mateo. Master Mateo is the one who designed the doorway of the church. In ancient times, the local people of Santiago would bring their children here and knock their heads against the statue of Master Mateo in the hope that by the magic touch, the intelligence and artistry of Mateo will rub off on them:)
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| Master Mateo |
Master Mateo is now enclosed so there's no chance you can knock your head against Master Mateo's. :)
Here's inside the church. I wasn't able to take a lot of photos though.
Proof that I was once in Santiago de Compostela wearing slippers. Wahaha.... :)
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This trip is part of my 20-day, 7-country Best of Europe adventure. Budget requirement is approximately USD3,500 (including airfare, accommodation, land arrangement and travel taxes).
