
Santiago de Compostela pilgrimage route
The Santiago de Compostela pilgrimage route is a historic network of routes across Europe leading to the cathedral in Santiago de Compostela, Spain, believed to house the remains of the apostle Saint James. Pilgrims walk, cycle, or ride along these trails for spiritual, cultural, or personal reasons. The most popular route, the Camino Frances, spans about 800 km from France, taking around a month to complete. Along the way, travelers experience scenic landscapes, historic sites, and diverse communities. The pilgrimage offers reflection, tradition, and connection to centuries-old religious and cultural heritage, culminating in the reverent visit to the cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site.