The Camino de Santiago is a 1,200-year-old pilgrimage route that encompasses history, faith, and geopolitics across the centuries. Together with Jerusalem and Rome, this religious trek to the supposed tomb of St. James the Apostle was one of the three great pilgrimage destinations of medieval Christendom.

Legends of miracles helped the Catholic faithful claim a sacred legacy in their northern Spain domains during times of civil strife and foreign invasion. Pilgrim traffic encouraged the growth of monastic hubs in the countryside and bolstered city life as believers made the great journey to the western edge of the known world. After centuries of decline and neglect, this ancient pilgrimage sprang to life again in the last quarter of the 20th century.

More than just a place to visit, Santiago de Compostela stands as the site of a true traveler’s pilgrimage. The cathedral city draws millions of visitors each year, with at least half a million setting off from various starting points across Spain or from farther beyond. George Greenia, professor emeritus of medieval studies at William and Mary, highlights the history of this pilgrimage route and its continued popularity as a religious and non-religious destination for those seeking spiritual clarity.

General Information

• View Common FAQs and Policies about our Online Programs on Zoom.