THE PORTUGUESE WAY OF SAINTIAGO
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THE PORTUGUESE WAY OF SAINTIAGO
The Portuguese Way of Saint James (Central) is one of the main pilgrimage routes to Santiago de Compostela, crossing Portugal from south to north before entering Galicia. Although the route officially begins in Lisbon, most pilgrims choose to begin their journey in the city of Porto, as the distance is shorter and the infrastructure for pilgrims is more consolidated.
Pilgrims who start their journey in Lisbon cover about 620 km, a journey that can take between 25 and 30 days on foot. The route passes through emblematic places such as Azambuja, Santarém, Tomar and Coimbra, cities rich in history and heritage. This section of the route is demanding, with long stages and fewer hostels, but it rewards pilgrims with stunning landscapes and a strong connection to Portugal's Templar and medieval heritage.
Starting from Porto, the Central Way is about 240 km long and can be covered in 10 to 12 days. This route passes through historic towns such as Barcelos, Ponte de Lima and Valença, crossing green valleys, rivers and Roman bridges. Part of the route joins the Via XIX, an ancient Roman road from the time of Emperor Augustus, described in Antoninus' Itinerary.
The Via XIX connected Bracara Augusta (Braga) with Asturica Augusta (Astorga), covering 299 Roman miles. On its way it passed through Ponte de Lima, Tude (Tui), Turoqua (Pontevedra), Aquis Celenis (Caldas de Reis), Iria (Iria Flavia) and Lucus Augusti (Lugo). This road was one of the main communication routes in the northwest of the Iberian Peninsula and over the centuries it became part of the Pilgrim's Way to Santiago. Pilgrims following this route pass through towns and villages steeped in history before reaching Santiago de Compostela.
Throughout history, kings, nobles and high-ranking clerics have promoted devotion to Santiago and highlighted the importance of the pilgrimage. In 1244, King Sancho II encouraged the cult of the saint, while in the 14th century, Isabel of Portugal, known as the Holy Queen, showed her devotion by offering her crown before the altar of Santiago. She was also buried in Coimbra with a pilgrim's staff, a symbol of her faith and connection to the Way.
Another notable example is that of Portuguese King Manuel I, who went on pilgrimage from Lisbon to Santiago de Compostela in 1502. As a sign of his passage and devotion, he ordered the installation of a lamp that would permanently illuminate the church of Santiago, thus perpetuating the memory of his stay in the city.
The Central Portuguese Way offers an enriching experience, combining spirituality, culture and nature. Pilgrims walk along trails lined with vineyards and woods, pass centuries-old churches and monasteries and enjoy the hospitality of the towns they pass through. The gastronomy is another highlight, with typical dishes such as codfish à minhota, lamprey from the River Minho and the region's Vinho Verde wines.
Regardless of the starting point, the Way of Saint James is more than a physical challenge - it's a journey of introspection and discovery, where each step brings the pilgrim closer not only to the final destination, but also to a unique and transformative experience.