Camino Frances

Roncesvalles

1st stage: from Roncesvalles to Zubiri The pilgrimage to the Cathedral of Compostela can be started from any of the villages along the Santigo Route since it is not necessary to go through every stage of it. But if you want to make the pilgrimage from beginning to end, you will have to start in Roncesvalles and cover 31 stages. The 1st stage takes the pilgrim from the mythical Roncesvalles to Zubiri. It was in Roncesvalles that a battle took place among the Basque people and the Carlomagno troops, back in 778. When the troops tried to cross the Pyrenees on his way back to France, the mythical Roldan died. Before leaving this beautiful village, pilgrims can enjoy a visit to the Gothic Church of Santa Maria, with its flight of steps, and the Romanesque Chapel of the Sancti Spiritus, used in the past as a tomb for pilgrims. Another important monument is the Church of Santiago, which dates back to the 13th century. During this 1st stage of the Route, travellers can stop at one of the best transepts of the French Route (14th century) and then in Bruguete, where they will be able to set foot on a pilgrim street-road. El Espinal is the next stop on the route. This city was founded by Teobaldo II before he set off for Tunez, where he was to take part in the Crusade organized by Saint Luis of France. The route reaches the top of Menquiziz, where San Cristobal, a 16th-century Church, is located, with its neoclassical altarpiece of the 19th century. Then it takes you to Viscarret, the final stop on the Route, according to the Calixtus codex. Upon leaving this village, you will arrive in Linzoain and then, Erro. Legend states that in Erro there is a menhir lying down, of approximately 2 meters, which corresponds to the length of one of Roldan´s steps. Finally, pilgrims arrive in Zubiri, the final stop of the 1st day of the journey, where once a leprosarium-hospital arose, and where the "Puente de la Rabia" can still be found. Here, weary travellers can rest at the lodging house (Tel +34 948 304 071), at the "Hostería" (Tel +34 948 304 329).

Zubiri

2nd stage: from Zubiri to Pamplona Having taken a rest in Zubiri after an exhausting journey, the pilgrim will begin the second stage of the Route, which passes through Iiárraz and Esquízoz, before arriving in Larrasoaña. Here, he will find the "Sociedad de Amigos del Camino" (Society of Friends of the Route), where he will be provided with any information he might need. Then the Route continues to Aquerreta, with its Church of the Transfiguration, and arrives in Zuriáin, where the Temple of San Millán arises. Then it crosses the Arga River, in Iroz, alongside a beautiful Romanesque bridge and reaches the village of Zabaldica, where pilgrims can visit the image of Santiago, kept in the Church of San Esteban. The Route continues to Arleta, where you can tour the Romanesque Church of Santa Maria, which contains a modern image of Santiago. The next village on the Route is Trinidad de Arre, where once there was a hospital (14th century), dependent on the Roncesvalles hospital. The Route continues to Villava and Burlada before arriving in Pamplona, the final stop of the second stage of the journey. It is time to rest in the "Albergue de Peregrinos de la Parroquia de San Cernin" (C/ Ansoleaga, 2. Tel +34 948 227 100).

Pamplona

3rd stage: from Pamplona to Puente la Reina Before leaving Pamplona for the third stage of the Route, you might want to visit this beautiful and important city in the Middle Ages. Its magnificent Gothic Cathedral (14th century) includes one of the most beautiful Ogival Cloisters in Europe, and was famous in the Middle Ages for the meals that were served every day to the pilgrims. The Monastery of Santo Domingo (16th century) houses historic images and embrossings. You will also find the fortress churches of San Cernin (14th century) and of San Nicolás (13th century), both built in Gothic style. The third stage of the Route begins in Pamplona and passes through Cizur Menor, where you can explore the ruins of a hospital for pilgrims, the Church of the Encomienda de San Juan de Jerusalén (12th century) and the Romanesque Temples of San Emeterio and San Celedonio. The journey continues to the town of Zariegui, where remains a cobbled section of the Route on its way to Alto del Perdón. Then it passes through the villages of Uterga, Muruzábal and Obanos, where the paths to Somport and Rocesvalles intersect, beside the small Chapel of San Salvador. The Route finally reaches the town of Puente de la Reina, final stop of the third stage. This place was named after a bridge built by doña Mayor de Navarra, in the 11th century, for pilgrims. Here travellers can rest in the refuge for pilgrims of the Padres Reparadores (Tel +34 948 340 050), or in the El Peregrino inn (Tel +34 948 340 075).

Puente la Reina

4th stage: from Puente la Reina to Estella In Puente la Reina, final stop of the third stage, you can visit the Church of the Crucifijo (12th, 14th centuries), which was built by the members of the Order of the Temple. You can also tour the Church of Santiago (12th century), located on the Mayor Street, which contains one of the finest multicolored sculptures representing the Apostle Santiago that can be found along the Santiago Route. The fourth stage of the Santiago Route leaves behind this charming town through the Bridge of the Peregrinos, a medieval jewel dating back to the 11th century, and is headed for Mañeru, where walkers will find a famous Renaissance transept. They will be able to visit the18th-century parish church of San Pedro and pray inside. The journey continues to Cirauqui, a typical medieval town which contains a beautiful Roman road and the Church of San Román (16th century), filled with keepsakes from former pilgrimages. Another ancient monument is the Temple of Santa Catalina, built in the 13th century. The Santiago Route progresses to Lorca, where visitors will find a marvelous group of emblazoned houses and the Romanesque Church of El Salvador, built in the 12th century. Leaving behind this village, walkers arrive in Villatuerta, with its Romanesque parish church of the 12th century, the small Chapel of San Miguel (11th century) and its Romanesque bridge. The journey finally takes exhausted travellers to a resting place where they will spend their fourth night on the Santiago Route, Estella. This noble village, founded in 1909 by the king of Navarra Sancho Ramírez, is the home to numerous precious gems that can be viewed by walkers after having taken a rest in the Refuge of the Pilgrims (Tel +34 948 550 200), in the Cristina inn (Tel +34 948 550 772) or, if you prefer, in the Lizarra Camping (Tel +34 948 551 733).

Estella

5th stage: from Estella to Los Arcos Estella, commonly known as "the small Toledo", offers numerous Medieval precious gems: the Church of San Pedro de la Rúa, from the 12th century, which includes a beautiful Cloister where stands the capital made of twisted columns; the 12th-century Church of San Miguel, with its marvelous Late-Romanesque Façade; the Church of the Santo Sepulcro, built in the 12th century, which also contains a magnificent Romanesque Façade; the 12th century Church of San Juan Baustista; the Gothic-style Church of San Pedro de Lizarra; and the Palace of the Reyes, dating back to the 12th century. After visiting this Medieval village, walkers begin their fifth day of the journey, which will take them, first to the municipality of Ayegui, where stands the Monastery of Irache. Its origins get lost into the Visigothic Age. Once, the architecture was the most ancient hospital for pilgrims who arrived in Navarra on their way to Santiago, and a University in the 17th and 18th century. In its interior there are Romanesque apses, ogival naves and a marvelous Renaissance Cloister. Visitors to this beautiful sanctuary will be delighted to discover a fountain from where wine flows. But the Monastery is not the only monument worth viewing in this historic village. Pilgrims can also stop at the Parish Church of San Martín, from the 12th century, and taste the local wines at the Museum of Wine. The Route progresses to Azqueta, where stands a Medieval fountain,, and to Villamayor de Monjardín with its 12th-century Church in memory to San Andrés. The wine cellars Castillo de Monjardín can be found here. Finally the journey passes through Urbiola before reaching Los Arcos, a village which extends along both sides of the Route. This is the final stop of the fifth day of the Santiago Route. Pilgrims will find a place to rest in the Refuge of the Parish Church of Santa María (Tel +34 948 441 091) and in the inns Ezequiel (Tel +34 948 640 296) and Mónaco (Tel +34 948 640 000).

Los Arcos

6th stage: from Los Arcos to Logroño Before starting the sixth stage of the Route, which will be headed to Logroño, pilgrims can stroll along the Mayor Street in the noble village of Los Arcos, stop in front of the façades of its stately homes and view the blazons which decorate them. Then, travelers can go in the Parish Church of Santa María (16th century) and admire the different artistic styles there represented, the beautiful Gothic Cloister; the Gothic sculpture representing the Virgin (14th century); the choir stalls dating back to 1561; the central and lateral Baroque Altarpieces; the Renaissance Bell Tower and the Plateresque Façade. After leaving Los Arcos, the sixth day of the journey will take walkers to Sansol, a municipality where stands the 18th-century Church of San Zoilo. Then the Route arrives in the village of Torres del Río, where arises a fascinating Romanesque funerary Church that shows Mudéjar influences. It was built by the Order of the Santo Sepulcro in the 12th century. This church is commonly known as the "Linterna de los muertos" (Lantern of th dead) because legend states that, when a pilgrim died in the hospital or nearby, the custom was to light a fire on top of the lantern. This hospital can still be seen today. The Route progresses to Viana, once a Princedom established in the 15th century by Carlos III the Noble, title held by the heir to the Crown of Navarra. In this princely town, travellers can view the marvelous Renaissance façade of the Santa María´s Church, built between the 14th and 16th century. Its magnificence is characteristic of cathedrals; it has five naves, eleven chapels and a wide apse aisle. Its interior is adorned with a lateral altarpiece in memory to Apostle Santiago. Pilgrims can also view the ruins of San Pedro´s Church and the beauty of the emblazoned façades that decorate this town. Upon leaving the beautiful Viana, the Route passes Navarra and enters La Rioja. After crossing an old stone bridge of pilgrim origins, it reaches Logroño, the final stop of the sixth day of the journey. Here, pilgrims can find shelter in the refuge for pilgrims (C/ Hospital Viejo, 9. Tel +34 941 260 001).

Logroño

7th stage: from Logroño to Nájera In Logroño pilgrims have the opportunity to visit a city whose old quarter still has the atmosphere of a Medieval borough. The Rúa Vieja, the oldest street of the city, and the Mayor Street are the paths used by pilgrims in order to pass through Logroño. On their way, they can visit the Church of Santiago el Real, which contains a 17th-century image representing the Apostle´s apparition in Clavijo. Santa María del Palacio´s Church, that houses an altarpiece from the 16th century; San Bartolomé´s Church, built in Gothic style; and the Cathedral of Santa María la Redonda, a beautiful Gothic Temple, crowned by two Baroque bell towers. Travellers leave the city through the door of the Camino and continue their journey, to Navarrete. On the outskirtsof Navarrete they will discover the remains of the San Juan de Acre´s Hospital, built in the Middle Ages by María Ramírez. The Route crosses the town alongside the Medieval Mayor Street, which is still as it originally was. The Asunción´s Church, on Mayor Street, dates back to the 16th century. The Route then passes a cemetery that still has the old door of the Hospital mentioned above and Pilgrimage Capitals. The journey moves forward to the famous Nájera, birthplace of Kings and court of the Pamplona-Nájera Kingdom during the reign of King Don García. This royal town became a stop of the Santiago Pilgrimag in 1030, when Sancho el Grande decided to deviate the pilgrim´s route. Some years later, his son, García IV built the Monastery of Santa María la Real and a refuge. Therefore he determined the character of the city as a pilgrimage place. The Monastery, a magnificent Gothic Temple built on the ruins of a 15th century temple, includes a Cloister and the Tombs of Doña Blanca and of Diego López de Haro, the Mausoleum of the Reyes and el Coro, masterpieces in its own time. In this historic town pilgrims can rest from after an exhausting seventh day of the journey in the Refuge of los Padres Franciscanos (Tel +34 941 363 650), in the San Fernando inn (Tel +34 941 363 700) and in El Ruedo camping (Road to Burgos, Tel +34 941 360 102).

Najera

8th stage: from Nájera to Santo Domingo de la Calzada On the eighth day of their journey pilgrims say goodbye to Nájera, but before, they can travel to Azofra, not included on the Santiago Route, and visit the San Millán de la Cogolla sanctuaries, which were of great importance in Medieval Christian Spain. In San Millán you can find the Cañas Monastery, as well as two of the most relevant and well-known sanctuaries in Spain: the Suso Monastery (6th to 11th centuries) probably the most ancient in the Iberian Peninsula, and the Yuso Monastery (11th century). Both are the birthplaces of the Castilian Language, here were written the first words of one of the most important languages in the world. Retaken the Santiago Route, travellers will arrive in Azofra, village that once had a hospital and a church used as a tomb for pilgrims. Later, they will enter the municipalities of Cirueña and Hervias. Finally the Route reaches Santo Domingo de la Calzada, one of the most important stages of the journey. The Route passes along the city center. This beautiful city was named after a monk, later a saint, who dedicated most of his life to improve the conditions of the path. He built all by himself the Oja bridge and the road between his city and Redecilla. He has been attributed many miracles, the most popular being the one commonly known as the Legend of the Cock and the Hen. It took place some 300 years after the monk´s death.For centuries, these fantastic events attracted pilgrims , who arrived in the city anxious to witness a miracle. Santo Domingo de la Calzada became a city in 1134 through a concession made by Alfonso XI. In Santo Domingo travellers should visit the Cathedral, a magnificent building whose construction began in the middle of the 12th century and was complete in the Gothic period. It contains many works of art, such as the Saint´s Mausoleum, a Renaissance central Altarpiece and a 18th-century Bell Tower. You can also find a hostelry founded by Santo Domingo, rebuilt in the 14th century , that today houses a state hotel. After exploring this prodigious city, pilgrims can rest in the refuge for pilgrims (Casa del Santo, Mayor Street 42, (Tel +34 941 340 004), in El Corregidor inn (Tel +34 941 342 552) or in the Parador Nacional (Tel +34 941 343 000).

Santo Domingo de la Calzada

9th stage: from Santo Domingo to Belorado The nineth stage of the Route leaves La Rioja Province and enters Burgos Province. Leaving Santo Domingo de la Calzada behind, it continues to Grañón. On its ouskirts pilgrims will see the Cruz de los Valientes (the Brave´s Cross) in memory to the scene of the Juicio de Dios (God´s Judge), which was held between the representatives of Grañón and Santo Domingo over the ownership of a pasture. The dispute was solved favorably for Martín García, from Grañón, who is still remembered as a local hero. Walkers will find a typical example of a pilgrimage city , with a long main street. They can also view San Juan Bautista´s Parish Church, which is home to a marvelous Renaissance central Altarpiece. Later on the path leaves La Rioja Province and enters Burgos Province through Redecilla del Camino, a municipality that extends along both sides of the Route. During the Middle Ages there were 3 assistance centers for travellers. Pilgrims will be able to pray in the Virgen de la Calle´s Church, built in the 14th century and rebuilt between the 17th and 18th centuries. It contains a magnificent Romanesque font from the 12th century. Another ancient monument is San Lázaro´s Hospital for pilgrims. After passing through Redecilla, the Route heads for Castidelgado, where a long time ago, stood a monastery and a hospital, both dedicated to Santiago Apostle. Today, visitors can view the Count of Berberana´s Stately Home, as well as San Pedro´s Church (16th century) and Santa María´s Chapel, with a front from the 18th century. The next village on the Route is Viloria, where Santo Domingo de la Calzada was born in 1019. The font in which he was baptized can still be seen in the Parish Church of Nuestra Señora de la Asunción. Then the Route passes through Villamayor del Río and finally reaches Belorado, the final stop of the nineth day of the journey. Here pilgrims find shelter in the Parish Churches of Santa María and San Pedro (Tel +34 947 580 085) and in the Belorado inn (Tel +34 947 580 684).

Belorado

10th stage: from Belorado to San Juan de Ortega In Belorado pilgrims can drink water, like its predecessors used to, from a Medieval Fountain, and pray in the Chapel of Nuestra Señora de Belén, once a hospital. Another monument is Santa María´s Parish Church that was rebuilt in the 16th century on the ruins of the ancient Church of Virgen de la Capilla. It contains fascinating sepulchres, a chapel and a beautiful Renaissance Altarpiece. Walkers can also visit San Pedro´s Church (17th century) and Virgen Bretonera´s Abbey. The tenth day of the Route takes travellers to Tosantos, after crossing the Cato Bridge, attibuted to Alfonso VI. The rupestrian Chapel of Virgen de la Peña, sorrounded by ancient caves, dominates the town. Then the path continues to Villambista, where the Parish Church contains an altarpiece from the 16th century. San Roque´s Chapel also contains an altarpiece that originally belonged to the Abbey of San Francisco de Belorado. Then the Route heads for Espinosa del Camino, which extends along both sides of the path. Here can be found the ruins of San Felices´ Abbey, founded in the 9th century by that saint. In its interior are the tombs of San Félix and the Count Diego Parcelos, the famous man that carried out the repopulation of Burgos. Later on pilgrims arrive in Villafranca Montes de Oca, a town full of history where stand the ruins of San Antonio Abad´s Hospital, founded in 1830 by Queen Juana. At one time there was a Cathedral that was destroyed by the Muslims, on its ruins was built Santiago´s Church (18th century). After leaving this town, the Route passes through Valdefuentes, on its way to San Juan de Ortega, the final stop of the tenth day of the journey. San Nicolas´Church (12th century) contains the sepulchre of San Juan, who founded this town, as well as a flamboyant Gothic Baldachin from the 15th century that represents miraculous scenes of San Juan´life. Walkers can rest in the refuge for pilgrims (Tel +34 947 560 438)

San Juan de Ortega

11th stage: from San Juan de Ortega to Burgos The eleventh stage of the Route leaves San Juan de Ortega and heads for Agés and , on its way, passes the Chapel of Nuestra Señora del Rebollar (18th century). In Agés, where there used to be iron mines, travellers can pray inside the Parish Church (16th century). Then, the Route leaves the village through a Romanesque Bridge of a single span and arrives in Atapuerca, known worldwide for its prehistoric remains. Here walkers can visit San Martin´s Parish Church (16th century). After leaving behind this ancestral village, the path continues to Cardenuela, where stands a Parish Church with a beautiful Reinassance façade, passes through Orbaneja and Villafría and reaches Gamonal, which was an episcopal seat before it was moved to Burgos. An important monument is the Church of Nuestra Señora La Real y antigua (14th century), that contains a delicate transept from the 16th century. Finally, the Route arrives in Burgos, a city that has always been connected with Santiago´s Pilgrimage. Throughout history there have been a total of 35 hospitals and refuges. Its magnificent Cathedral, one of the most important in Spain, offers many attractions to visitors such as chapels (Condestable, Santiago, Cristo de Burgos), the Choir and some of the façades. But the Cathedral is not the only monument in Burgos, since the town is full of them: San Nicolas Church, the 14th-century Mudejar Door, the Monastery of Huelgas Reales, which contains many royal mausoleums and a Fabric Museum, the 12th-century El Rey Hospital , the most ancient in town and the San Lesmes Parish Church (15th-16th centuries). At the end of this exhausting day, pilgrims can stop to recover strength for the next day at the Refuge of Seminario Mayor de Sacerdotes (Tel +34 947 205 247) and at the Hostelry of San Pedro de Cardoseña (Tel +34 947 290 033).

Burgos

12th stage: from Burgos to Hontanas The route leaves Burgos and passes through Villalvia first and then Tarjados, an ancient pre-Christian village that at one time had a hospital near the Church of San Juan. Travellers can visit the Parish Church of La Asuncion, from the 13-18C, that contains a beautiful transept from the 18C, and the Convent of the Paules, which includes the remains of a doorway from the Santo Domingo Palace (16C). The route continues towards Rabé de las Calzadas, where pilgrims can see the Parish Church of Santa Marina, with a splendid doorway from the 13C. Then they arrive at Hornillos del Campo, with its road-path, typical along the Route to Santiago. A disproportionate ogival church with three naves and a magnificent transept dominates the town, where also stand the remains of a Benedictine Monastery and San Lazaro´s Hospital, vestiges of its Medieval glory, when it had three hospitals. There are also two Medieval bridges. Finally, the route reaches Hontanas, the last halt of this stage. Here stands the Parish Church of Nuestra Señora de la Concepción, near the ruins of San Antón Convent -with a Gothic church from the 14 C- founded by Alfonso VII in 1146. Popular legends state that the Antonian monks cured pilgrims who suffered from the "fire of San Antón" -a disease similar to leprosy- by cutting off the infected members of the patients. Pilgrims can rest in the refuge of the City Hall (Tel +34 947 377 0359)

Castrojeriz

13th Stage: from Hontanas to Frómista Having taken a good rest, pilgrims begin the 13th day of the journey along the Route to Santiago, which takes him first to San Antón, where are the ruins of the Antonianos´Convent, 14 C. Then the route continues towards Castrojeriz, an old Celtic town, which was repopulated by Sigericón at the end of the 7 C. In this historic town -at one time it contained seven hospitals- pilgrims can pray inside the Church of Santa María del Manzano and enjoy an polychrome wood image of the Virgin. They can also visit the Parish Church of Santo Domingo, which houses a museum; San Juan´s Gothic Church; the remains of a Castle from the 14 C, and the plinthed walls from the Roman period. After coming out of this village, the Route enters Palencia province, going through Itero de la Vega, whose inhabitants, in the High Middle Ages had the power to elect their own lord. San Pedro´s Church was built in the 16 C over the remains of a former one from the 12 C. Piedad´s Chapel, which dates back to the 13 C, contains a carving of the Apostle Santiago. The municipality also treasures several funerary sculptures and monuments. There is such a variety of sights that the City Hall has opened a refuge for pilgrims that want to spend the night here. (Tel +34 988 151 826) Later on, the Route arrives at Boadilla del Camino, where the Bishop Antonio de Rojas founded his first hospital in the 16 C, when the Church of Asunción was also built. In its interior there is a Renaissance retable with paintings by Juan de Villoldo and a Romanesque font. Pilgrims finally reach Frómista, which contains a number of monuments that reflect the importance of this halt along the Route. Of all the hospitals the town had, only the Palmeros Hospital still remains, which today is used as hostel. The Romanesque San Martín´s Church, which was part of the Benedictine Monastery founded by Doña Mayor, houses interesting sculptures. The Renaissance San Pedro´s Church (15 C ) and the Church of Santa María del Castillo (16 C) are also worth a visit. Weary pilgrims will be able to stay at the hostel (Tel +34 988 810 144), at the inn Los Palmeros (Tel +34 988 810 067) and at the inn San Telmo (Tel +34 988 810 102).

Fromista

14th Stage: from Frómista to Carrión de los Condes After leaving Frómista, the Route begins its 14th stage at Población de Campos, where pilgrims can visit the small chapels of San Miguel and Socorro, both from the 12 C, and the Gothic Parish Church of Magdalena. Then, the Route crosses the villages of Villovieco; Revenga de Campos, where stands the church of San Lorenzo that contains a carving of the Saint from the 18 C; and Villarmentero de Campos, where pilgrims can tour round the church of San Martín, and admire its Mudéjar coffering, a plateresque retable and a beautiful Calvary. Further on, the itinerary continues through the province of Palencia and reaches Villalcázar de Sirga, a town that once had two hospitals for pilgrims. Here stands the church of Santa María la Blanca, from the 13 C, which has three naves and a chapel dedicated to the Apostle Santiago. It also contains an image of the Virgin "Cantigas", to whom the King Alfonso X "The Wise" dedicated some of his writings. Worthy of note are also the Chevet, the Altarpiece and the Chapel with sepulchres from the 12 C. A 17C palace has been converted into a refuge for pilgrims. Finally, the Route takes walkers to the town where they will rest after today´s journey, Carrión de los Condes. This important Medieval town was the Court of many kings and queens, site of councils and the birthplace of renowned figures such as the Marquis of Santillana. The Abbey of Santa Clara, from the 13 C, contains a Pietà created by Gregorio Fernández. The Romanesque church of Santa María del Camino treasures an image of Christ from the 15 C. The Monastery of Zoilo, from the 16 C is a masterpiece of the Renaissance. Worthy of note is also the beautiful Romanesque façade of the temple of Santiago, destroyed by the French troops during the Independence War. After visiting the town, pilgrims can rest at the hostelries of the Parish Church of Santa María (Tel +34 988 880 072) and the Association of Friends of the Route (Tel +34 988 880 886).

Carrion de los Condes

15th Stage: from Carrión de los Condes to Calzadilla de la Cueza At the 15th stage of the Route, pilgrims can deviate from the traditional itinerary and stop by Calzada de los Molinos. The Romanesque church of Santiago contains a High Altarpiece representing the Apostle Santiago. The ruins of the monastery of Benevivere, from the 12 C are also worth a visit. Further on, the itinerary crosses Calzadilla and arrives at Cervatos de la Cueza, where stand the churches of Santa Columba and San Miguel. Back on the Route to Santiago, pilgrims continue to Quintanilla de la Cueza, where are the remains of a late Roman town from the 3 and 4 C, including remarkable mosaics. The brick Parish Church of Asunción contains important cofferings, a High Altarpiece from the 16 C, describing scenes from the life of Christ, and sculptures of San Antón and Santa Catalina, both from the 16 C. The portico and the chevet show Mudejar cofferings. The Route advances towards Calzadilla de la Cueza, a town through which passed a Roman road. A solitary tower presides over the town, lighthouse for pilgrims in the Middle Ages. The Parish Church of San Martín treasures a Renaissance retable from the 16 C, a work from the Juan de Juni School. It originally belonged to the monastery of Santa María de las Tiendas. In this area there are not many monuments. Instead, there are many constructions typical of the area, such as dovecotes, which present different shapes, from square to octagonal. After taking a walk round this tiny village, pilgrims can rest and collect energies for the next day at the refuge for pilgrims (Tel +34 988 883 050).

Sahagun

16th Stage: from Calzadilla de la Cueza to Sahagún The 16th stage takes pilgrims to León, an important Community along the Route to Santiago, full of history and art. But before entering this region, the Route passes through some villages in the Palencia region; including Santa María de las Tiendas, where stands a country house built over the ruins of a 11-12 C hospital; Lédigos, donated to the Church of Compostela by Doña Urraca; Terradillos de los Templarios, a town that, as indicates its name, belonged to this religious-military order; Moratinos; and San Nicolás del Real Camino, a municipality that contains a brick church with a 18 C retable. The Route leaves Palencia and enters León through Sahagún, today´s staging post. This historical town became relevant thanks to the Route to Santiago. It grew into an important Borough, with fairs and markets where different products could be bought. Likewise, the town developed Romanesque Art extensively. Pilgrims can visit the ruins of one of the most important monasteries in the North of the Peninsula, with large extensions of land. At one time, coin was minted in the monastery. It also was a prestige cultural centre, where distinguished figures received education, including Fray Bernardino de Sahagún. There are other monuments, including the Romanesque churches of San Tirso and San Lorenzo, from the 12 and 13 C; the small chapel of the Virgin of Puente; the monastery of San Facundo; San Juan, the Trinidad and Peregrina. The Benedictine brick Monastery is the most remarkable of its kind. Built in the 12 C, the monastery has an outstanding façade with precious Romanesque capitals. In its interior presides a Christ by Gregorio Fernández. Today, the construction houses a museum displaying important works of art from Sahagún and the sorrounding areas. The collection includes a processional monstrance by Enrique de Arfe; many Renaissance and Baroque paintings; Romanesque and Flemish sculptures; processional monstrances from different periods; and a Churrigueresque retable. The monastery also houses the sarcophagi with the remains of the King Alfonso VI and his wives. In this noble town pilgrims can stay at the Municipal Hostelry (Tel +34 987 782 117), and at La Codorniz Hostel (Tel +34 987 780 276).

El Burgo Ranero

17th Stage: from Sahagún to Reliegos The route starts this day, after having left Sahagún, in Calzada del Coto. At the entrance of this village, the Jacobean Street, the route forks in two, uniting again in Mansilla de las Mulas: the Royal French Route, which goes through El Burgo Renero; and the Hermanillos road, which goes along the antique Roman Calzada Trajana. Following the French Route, the pilgrim will first arrive at Bercianos del Real Camino, where the El Salvador Church stands, with a carving of Saint Joan the Baptist and a painting of the Stations of the Cross inside, both from the sixteenth century. Afterwards the route reaches the village of El Burgo Ranero, cut in two by a long straight Royal Street, an inheritance of the Camino de Santiago. Finally, at the end of this quiet day’s stage, the pilgrim reaches Reliegos, a village that was called Pallantia by the Romans and where three military roads meet. The village is famous for its underground wine cellars.

Leon

18th Stage: from Reliegos to León A day full of history for the pilgrim, during which he’ll see some of Spain’s most important Roman monuments. The eighteenth stage starts crossing Mansilla de las Mulas, a village with city walls and towers that was resettled by Fernando II in 1181. The village was of strategic importance during the Dark Ages, from which it inherited monuments like the Saint Martin Church (thirteenth century), restored in 1989 and today home to the Casa de Cultura of the town council; the Saint Mary Church, built in the eighteenth century on top of an earlier temple; the Saint Augustine Monastery (sixteenth century) and the hermitage of the Virgin de Gracia, various times restored. After leaving this historical village over a stone bridge which crosses the Esla River, the walker takes up the Camino again, direction Villamoros. However, first he can leave the road to visit the San Miguel de la Escalade Monastery, a national monument in Mozarabic style, 16 km from Mansilla de las Mulas. After Villamoros appears the Puente Villarente, a village you can access through the Twenty Eyes Bridge. Here you can see the sixteenth century Pilgrim Hospital. The journey continuous to Arcahueja and after that, the pilgrim reaches Valdelafuente, passing a modern cruise leaving the village. Then, descending the Portillo Top, the Camino arrives in Léon. Léon amasses some of Spain’s most important historic-artistic monuments, like its Cathedral, a Gothic gem and a masterpiece of architecture. The building was erected between the thirteenth and fourteenth century and restored last century. Next to the Cathedral, there is the Roman Saint Isidoro Basilica (eleventh and twelfth century), where the Saint Isidoro of Seville tomb is kept; and the Saint Marcus Monastery, with its fantastic front in plateresque style Other important buildings are the Saint Ana Church, built by Doña Urraca in the twelfth century, the Guzman Palace (sixteenth century), the Roman Saint Mary del Mercado Church (twelfth century), the Concepción Monastery (sixteenth century) and the Casa Botines, designed by Gaudi at the end of the nineteenth century. Léon also preserves antique Roman city walls which protected the city premises.

Villadangos del Paramo

19th Stage: from León to Villadangos del Páramo Pilgrims leave the town of León and continue their journey along the Route towards Trobajo del Camino, with a small chapel dedicated to the Apostle Martyr. Then pilgrims arrive at La Virgen del Camino, where legend states that the Virgin appeared in front of a shepherd in 1506, and asked him to build a shrine. Today stands one, built in 1961. Further on, the itinerary reaches Valverde de la Virgen, where there are no vestiges of the old Medieval Route. The next village the Route crosses is San Miguel del Camino , where, in the 12 C, there was a hospital for pilgrims. The Archeological Museum of León treasures an image of the Saint Apostle from the 15 C that belonged to this institution.Leaving behind this municipality, the Route takes pilgrims to the next staging post, Villadangos del Páramo, where they can stay at the Municipal Hostelry (Tel +34 987 390 003). This town of Roman origin, was the site of a battle that took place between the Queen Doña Urraca of León and her husband, Alfonso I of Aragón, in the year 1111. In the Middle Ages there was a hospital. Pilgrims can take a quiet walk round the streets and pray at the Parish Church, which contains an image of the Apostle Santiago from the 18 C.

Astorga

20th Stage: from Villadongos del Páramo to Astorga At this stage the Route first takes pilgrims to San Martín del Camino, where is the site of an old hospital. Then the itinerary continues towards Hospital de Órbigo. In this town were held in 1434 the famous jousts organised by Suero de Quiñónez, during which he challenged many European knights. Pilgrims will find the church of San Juan, built by the Knights Hospitaller. After leaving this epic village the Route crosses Santibáñez de Valdeiglesias and leads pilgrims to San Justo de la Vega, where stands a Parish Church that contains a carving of San Justo from the 16 C, and a retable from the 17 C. Finally pilgrims arrive at the end of the 20th stage along the Route, by reaching the episcopal town of Astorga. This historical and religious city, called Astúrica by the Romans, once had 25 hospitals. On it converge the French and the Plata Routes to Santiago. The extraordinary Gothic Cathedral, from the 15 C presides over the town. It has a Baroque façade and some Renaissance elements. The portada is typical of the Route. In its interior is a retable by Becerra from the 16 C. The Episcopal Palace or Gaudi Palace houses the Museo de los Caminos, which displays pieces from all churches related to the Route to Santiago. Pilgrims can also visit the Roman and Medieval ramparts, the Roman jailhouse and confinements for slaves. Travellers can find shelter at the refuge of the School of Santa María Madre de la Iglesia (Tel +34 987 615 976), at the hostelry of the Association of Friends of the Route (Tel +34 987 616 838), and at the hostels of La Peseta (Tel +34 987 617 275) and Astorga (Tel +34 987 617 575).

Rabanal del Camino

21th Stage: from Astorga to Rabanal del Camino The Route goes out of Astorga and it takes pilgrims, first, to Valdeviejas. But before arriving at this small village, travellers will pass by the small chapel of Ecce Homo. Once in the municipality -that had a hospital for pilgrims- they will view the church of San Verísimo, whose 14 C retable is in the Museo de los Caminos, in Astorga. The Route then passes through Murias de Richivaldo and arrives at Castrillo de los Polvazares, a town that has an outstanding architectural heritage, where the genuine atmosphere of the region of Maragatería still remains. The remains of a Roman encampment are worthy of note. Later on, the itinerary leads towards Santa Catalina de Somoza, a typical example of a staging post along the Route, with houses on both sides of the way. It once contained a Hospital, called Big by its inhabitants. Near the village rises Teleno mountain, dedicated to Mars by the Romans. After leaving behind this small village, the Route enters El Ganso via the Real Street, where in 1142 there was a Hospital and a Monastery. Its Santiago church houses the Chapel dedicated to the Christ of Pilgrims. A couple of kilometers further along the Route stand the ruins of La Fucarona, a Roman goldmine. Finally the Route reaches Rabanal del Camino ,our final halt for today. Upon arriving, pilgrims will see a big house that was the Hospital for Pilgrims in Medieval times. There is also a house, called the Four Corners, that is said to have given shelter to Felipe II. Travellers can pray in the small chapel of San José or in the Parish Church containing remains from the 12 C. In this town, pilgrims can stay at the Municipal Hostelry (Tel +34 987 631 056), at the Gaucelmo Refuge (Tel +34 987 639 492) and at the Inn-Tavern El Refugio, C/ Real s/n (Tel +34 987 691 826).

Ponferrada

22th Stage: from Rabanal del Camino to Molinaseca After leaving Rabanal del Camino the route continues across the region of León. The first village that appears is Foncebadón, the onetime important center in the Middle Ages that has been abandoned. Here took place a Council in the 10 C, and a century later, the hermit Guacelmo founded a hostelry for pilgrims. Some kilometers off the municipality, surmounting a peak that the Romans dedicated to Mercury can be seen the Ferro Cross, on top of a stick fixed to a big heap of stones . Traditionally travellers bring a stone from their places of origin and deposit it on the heap.The itinerary continues towards Manjarín, an abandoned village that once had a hospital. The Route crosses El Acebo, at whose entrance is the Fountain of the Trout. The houses have exterior staircases and slate roofs. Its Parish Church treasures a Romanesque carving of Santiago pilgrim. Next to this municipality is Compludo, where San Fructuoso founded his first monastery in the 7 C. A Medieval forge, run by water, can still be found. The itinerary continues and arrives at Riego de Ambrós, where stand the Chapels of San Fabián and San Sebastián, and the church of Asunción. Finally, pilgrims reach the end of today´s journey located in Molinaseca. Upon reaching this beautiful town -crossing a Romanesque bridge- travellers will view the ruins of the Sanctuary of Angustias. In the interior of the village the emblazoned houses with towers can be admired. One of this houses was inhabited by Doña Urraca. Also the Balboa house, the Hospital and the chapel of Saint Christ at the end of the village, are worthy of note. Pilgrims can find shelter at the Municipal Hostelry (Tel +34 987 453 072) and at the Palacio Hostel, C/ El Palacio, 1 (Tel +34 987 453 094).

Villafranca del Bierzo

23th Stage: from Molinaseca to Villafranca del Bierzo The Route leaves Molinaseca and passes across the small village of Campo, where stands the chapel of Santo Cristo. Further on, the Route crosses the popular town of Ponferrada. This town, with Prehistoric and Roman antecedents, had two accesses in the Middle Ages. One was via the Roman bridge spanning the Boeza river, sunk in the 18 C; the other was via the path of the Gallegos and then, crossing the river by the Medieval bridge of Mascarón. At the end of the 11 C, the Bishop of Astorga, Osmundo, commissioned the building of a new bridge, "la Pons Ferrata", a pass with iron banisters which gave name to the city. Later on, between the 11 and 14 C, the Castle of the Knights Templar was built. At the end of the 15 C, the Catholic Monarchs commissioned the construction of the Hospital de la Reina, next to the fortress. In this monumental town also stand the Basilica of Nuestra Señora de la Encina, from the 16 C -built to commemorate the apparition of the Virgin in a grove of holm oaks- and the Baroque church of San Andrés, from the 17 C, which is home to an outstanding retable from the 13 C, "The Christ of the Wonders". After visiting this town, pilgrims continue towards Columbrianos, that contains a Roman road; then pass through Fuentesnuevas, with the chapel of the Campo; and reach Camponayara, an important halt along the Route. In the Middle Ages it had two hospitals. The Route follows its course towards Cacabelos, where the first thing that appears into sight is the Chapel of San Roque; then the church of Santa María, from the 13-16 C, containing a carving of the Virgin from the 13 C. The Neoclassical Sanctuary of the Quinta Angustia, from the 18 C, is also worthy of note, as well as its Hospital for Pilgrims. Today´s journey finishes at Villafranca del Bierzo, a town founded in the 11 C, where the Cluny Order had an important representation. Pilgrims can enjoy the Collegiate Church of Santa María, built between the 13 and 16 C; the churches of Santiago (12 C) and San Nicolás, as well as the Agua Street, full of palaces and emblazoned houses. The Castle-Palace of the Marquisate is worthy of being visited. After this wearisome day of journey, travellers can stay at the Refuge for Pilgrims "Ave Fénix" (Tel +34 987 540 229), the Municipal Hostelry (Tel +34 987 540 085), and the hostals La Charola (Tel +34 987 540 200) and El Comercio (Tel +34 987 540 008).

O Cebreiro

24th Stage: from Villafranca del Bierzo to O Cebreiro At the end of today´s journey, pilgrims will reach the region of Galicia. The Route leaves Villafranca del Bierzo and passes through Pereje, a municipality that retains its Medieval atmosphere, and then Trabadelo. This village belonged to the Compostela Church after being donated by Alfonso III, and where stood the Castle of Aucatares. The Route then runs through Vega de Valcárcel, in the Ancares area. This village developed in the shade of the Castles of Sarracín, of which some ruins can be seen, and Veiga. Both castles are connected to Celtic legends. It is said that in 1520, the King Carlos V stayed here. Upon approaching Lugo, the Route passes through Ruitelán, with its Chapel of San Froilán, who, according to popular legends, lived as a hermit here. Further on, travellers arrive at Herrerías (forges), called after the many forges it once had. Later, the Route enters La Faba, from where can be viewed Cebreiro up in the distance. The last village in the region of Leon is Laguna de Castillo. Pilgrims enter Galicia by Lugo, not far from Santiago. The first village in the region of Lugo along the Route is Cebreiro, with an altitude of 1,300 meters. A group of "pallozas" can be seen -Preromanesque circular houses with straw roofs- and a beautiful Preromanesque temple, from the 9-10 C, containing a Chalice, the Paten of "Santo Milagro" and a precious Romanesque carving of Santa María la Real. The Ethnographic Museum, located in a "palloza" can be visited. Travellers can take shelter in the hostelry for pilgrims (Tel +34 982 367 125)

Sarria

25th Stage: from O Cebreiro to Sarria On the 26th day of the journey, pilgrims can visit Samos, located off the traditional French Itinerary, but whose Benedictine Monastery of San Xulián de Samos, from the 6-18 C, is worthy to be visited. This important monastery is situated on the valley by the Ouribio river, sorrounded by a scenery that enhances its beauty and provides a mysterious atmosphere. Its impressive Neoclassical façade is worthy of note, as well as the huge cloisters. The cloister of Nereidas, from the 16 C contains a beautiful fountain. The Ciprés chapel, from the 10 C, is one of the oldest elements in the monastery.Back on the Route, pilgrims head towards Balsa, with the small chapel of Nuestra Señora de las Nieves. Then, the Route passes through a picturesque scene full of oaks and chestnut trees located in San Xil. This village has a Romanesque church with a chalice in it dating back to the 15 C. The Route continues to Montán, where stands a church with a Romanesque nave and where pilgrims can drink water from the Fountain of Chafarico. Further on, pilgrims go through Furela, where stands a chapel dedicated to San Roque; then Pintín; Calvor, with many prehistorical sites; Aguiada; San Mamed del Camino; and San Pedro del Camino. After leaving this village, the Route leads to Sarria, the staging post for today. In this town -where Alfonso IX died in 1230, while making the pilgrimage-, the old quarter retains a strong Medieval character. Travellers can also visit the church of Salvador, with a Romanesque ground plan and Gothic façade; the small chapel of San Lázaro; the hospital of San Antonio, which today houses a Court; and the remains of its old fortress, from the 14 C. After visiting this Medieval town, travellers can rest for the following day -that will cover many villages-, at the hostelry (Tel +34 982 531 121).