Pilgrimage in European Perspective

12 February 2019

Three major pilgrimage routes existed in the Middle Ages. The Way of St. James extends from various parts of Europe to the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela, the Via Francigena travels from Canterbury to Rome, and the pilgrimage route spans the continent, leading to Jerusalem. The latter ultimately led to violent crusades.

Many routes in many countries led to the final destination. Geoffrey Chaucer’s stories of 14th-century pilgrims in “Canterbury Tales” even strengthened the international journey of religious devotees.

Canterbury is also the starting point of another less well-known ancient pilgrimage, the Via Francigena. The 10th-century Archbishop of Canterbury, Sigeric, created the 1,944 km-long route. He travelled from Canterbury to Rome and documented his journey. His writings give a detailed and unique account of his route.

His documents also give a fascinating insight into the European dimension of medieval Europe. Although modern means of transport and communication were absent, the mentality was much more European and international than it is today. No cultural or linguistic barrier was too high.

The so-called Dark Ages knew cultural exchange and centres of excellence in (Muslim) Spain and Ireland, France, Switzerland and other territories. Monasteries played a crucial role in preserving the Roman heritage and facilitating cultural exchange.

The pilgrimages were an essential part of this dynamic and open European society,  and a revival of a millennium-old tradition can be witnessed nowadays.

The Medieval Ages are never far away. (source: www.francigena-international.org