Origins and evolution
The tomb of St. James the Greater was discovered around the year 820. This event was immediately followed by the creation of the sacred place to venerate his remains. Today, twelve centuries later, pilgrimage represents a unique experience in our globalized world.
The pilgrimage phenomenon soon became a significant spiritual and cultural focal point for Europe, turning Santiago into a major pilgrimage site, along with Rome and Jerusalem. The Way of St. James has acted as a true ‘pathway of knowledge’.
This is the most famous medieval codex on the pilgrimage to Santiago. It is a five-book compilation of all of the liturgical texts, Jacobean traditions, miracles and records of the pilgrimage route, produced in Compostela in the 12th century.
A jubilee year is celebrated in Santiago de Compostela any time 25 July, the feast day of St. James the Greater, falls on a Sunday. This happens every six, five, six and eleven years. It begins with the opening of the Puerta Santa (Holy Door) on 31 December of the previous year.
One of the most famous symbols of the cathedral is the Botafumeiro, which may be largest censer in the world. It is used at masses celebrated on key dates at the cathedral, as well as every Friday (7:30 p.m.). In addition, the pilgrim mass is held at the cathedral’s high altar every day at noon.