Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port

“The Pyrenees ahead, and from here, westward”

Open in Google Maps

Go deeper↓

Photo: Pierre Bona · CC BY-SA 3.0

Scenes

Porte Saint-Jacques, the pilgrims' gate, with the Pyrenees visible through the arch — Porte Saint-Jacques — the pilgrims' gate opening onto the PyreneesKolossus · CC BY-SA 3.0

The Route Napoléon — pilgrims climbing the Pyrenean ridge — The first day's path, climbing past Orisson into the PyreneesMarathoni62 · CC BY-SA 3.0

Meaning

The River Nive flows between red roofs and narrow stone lanes, and beneath the town gate pilgrims tie scallop shells to their packs, readying their first steps.

Tradition tells that pilgrim roads from across France have gathered here since the Middle Ages, making this the starting point of the Camino Francés over the Pyrenees. From this walled town in the Basque Country, the journey of some 800 kilometers to Santiago begins.

Field notes

Location: French Basque Country · France · N43.2° · W1.2°
Best time: Early morning in late spring or early autumn, when the mountain crossing is at its kindest.
Getting there: Reached by branch-line train from Bayonne; collect your pilgrim credential at the Pilgrim Office.
Etiquette: In the narrow streets, pass quietly and respect the daily life of the town.

Sources

· UNESCO World Heritage
· Encyclopaedia Britannica

Wikipedia

Photographs are freely licensed works from Wikimedia Commons and similar sources; the author and license appear beneath each image.