Symbols of the Camino de Santiago

The pilgrim credential, the scallop shell, the pilgrim staff: here is what these symbols of the Camino de Santiago mean and where they come from.

The Credential

You may hear two names for this document. The "credencial" is issued by the Church; the "crédential" is the secular equivalent, typically provided by walking associations. Both serve the same purpose.

The credential is a pilgrim passport, traditionally carried by those walking the Camino for spiritual reasons. It is a letter of introduction, recommending the bearer to anyone they meet along the way.

You collect a stamp at each stage, given by a priest, the town hall, the tourist office or your accommodation. It is proof that you have walked the route.

You can obtain it from the Camino association closest to your home. It can also be ordered by filling in the form on the following website: www.chemins-compostelle.com.

It is also available at Le Puy-en-Velay Cathedral, where it is offered after the 7 a.m. mass and blessing. During the day, you can request it from the sacristy (10 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. during the season). Tel: +33 4 71 05 98 74.