Tomb of St. James in Santiago

Having finally arrived in Santiago -- the endpoint of the Camino de Santiago - the weary pilgim enters the cathedral.  Going up a few steps behind the altar, the pilgrim is in a small, gilded space, guarded by a priest.   Looking out into the cathedral is a gilded, bejeweled statue of St. James, the only one of the original Apostles -- other than St. Peter -- buried in Europe.  The tradition is to hug the statue and make a wish. Then one descends a few more steps, goes below the altar, to view the tomb itself.

We were fortunate enough to view the tomb while a priest was saying mass there, so the metal cage was open.  Several people have commented on the pointed ears and peculiar shadow on the head of the priest, giving him a somewhat sinister look.  I have no comment on that.

With Fresco Tours, we are leading a photo tour to the Basque country next April.  If you think you might be interested, please contact me or www.frescotours.com.  I'll be supplying more information on my website shortly.