Jacobean Route

The name Jacob is a predecessor of the name James. Since the supposed discovery of the tomb of the apostle James in Compostela, a multitude of pilgrims come to the site every year, on spiritual, religious, sporting or just leisure journeys.

Jacobean Route: All you need to know

The Jacobean Route is the main pilgrimage route to Santiago de Compostela, also known as the French Way to Santiago de Compostela. It is almost 800 kilometers long and is almost entirely located in Spain.

To reach it, it is recommended to go to the city of Pamplona, from where you can choose, among many options, a starting point for the route. The most classic point, and which makes the starting point of the Route Jacobea official, is the village of Saint Jean Pied de Port, already in French territory.

There is no right starting point, it depends on the traveler’s preference. Among the most famous starting points is the village of Saint Jean Pied de Port. Other popular departure points are Roncesvalles, Puente la Reina, Burgos, León or Sarria.

It is worth noting that to obtain the certificate of the Order of Santiago, known as Compostelana, it is necessary to walk at least 100 km or cycle at least 200 km.

All the way, signs are made using yellow arrows to help guide pilgrims. The average time to cover the route to the Camino de Santiago da Compostela is 33 days.

The legend of the Jacobean Route

There are many legends and mysteries surrounding the Camino de Santiago, but the main one is that around the year 800, a hermit followed a “rain of stars”, finding the place nicknamed Compostela (from the Latin “Campus Stellae”). And there he found the spoils of the apostle St. James.

With this discovery, the tomb site became a miraculous place, with several sacred paths reaching it.

Learn more about Santiago de Compostela and its paths or about the pilgrims on the Camino de Santiago.

What to do on Jacobean Route and tips

It is possible to see the Milky Way in the sky through the entire Jacobean route. There are many points of interest. Landscapes, ancient stones, bridges, chapels, churches, cathedrals and monasteries left by our ancestors, whose objective was to reach the “end of the world”, a place known as Finisterre.

Obviously, you can also enjoy the friendliness and hospitality of the local residents, whose culture, habits and cuisine have surprised pilgrims for over a thousand years.

For those who want to start in Saint Jean Pied de Port, on Rue de la Citadelle in the historic center, you will find the city’s pilgrim hostel. It is recommended to walk between April and October. It is worth noting that in July and August there are fewer places available in the hostels because it is a summer and vacation period.

The Jacobean route is usually done on foot or by bicycle. In addition, it’s a good idea to carry as little luggage as possible, carry the shell nailed to your backpack or chest, and carry your walking sticks to alleviate the strain on your knees.

How much does the Jacobean Route cost

According to pilgrims who have already traveled the Jacobean Route, expenses for accommodation and meals are around 40 euros per day.

Why visit the Jacobean route?

For those interested in history, culture, religion, gastronomy and beautiful landscapes, and have a lot of disposition, don’t miss out the Jacobean Route. The attraction provides a unique and unforgettable experience, in addition to helping self-knowledge, through inner reflections and discoveries about oneself.