2024 Travel Review｜Pilgrimage destinations in Spain: Santiago de Compostela

#2024Travel Review Santiago de Compostela, meaning "Santiago of the Starry Fields", is the capital of the Galician Autonomous Region in Spain. Although it has a population of less than 100,000, it has attracted much attention for its profound historical and cultural background. According to legend, James the Great, one of the twelve disciples of Jesus, was buried here, making it a pilgrimage site for Catholics. Since the Middle Ages, countless pilgrims have embarked on a journey from all over France to northern Spain via different routes, forming the famous "Way of Saint James". In 1985, the ancient city of Santiago de Compostela was listed as a World Cultural Heritage by UNESCO, which is an affirmation of its unique historical and cultural value. The "Road to St. James" in Spain and France were separately listed as World Cultural Heritage in 1993 and 1998 respectively, further demonstrating the importance and influence of this pilgrimage road. Today, Santiago de Compostela is not only a holy place in the hearts of believers, but also an excellent place for tourists to explore Spanish history and culture. Whether you are strolling through the streets of the ancient city or embarking on the Way of St. James, you can feel the unique charm and long history of this city.