Every December 30th, the city of Santiago de Compostela and all the pilgrims celebrate a very special event: the Traslatio or Translation of the Apostle James. This day commemorates how, according to tradition, the body of the Apostle was transported from Palestine to Galicia. During the solemn mass at the Cathedral of Santiago, the famous Botafumeiro, the enormous and renowned incense burner of Compostela, is used. This celebration combines history, faith, and spectacle, attracting hundreds of faithful, tourists, and pilgrims of the Camino de Santiago each year.
Saint James the Apostle in the Cathedral of Santiago
The History of the Apostle James: From Preacher to Martyr
James the Greater was, as we know, one of the twelve apostles of Jesus. He preached Christianity in Jerusalem and, according to tradition, also traveled to the Iberian Peninsula to spread the message of Christ. After returning to Jerusalem, he was executed by beheading on the orders of King Herod Agrippa in the year 44 AD, becoming one of the first Christian martyrs.
His disciples Theodore and Athanasius, according to legend, gathered his body and transported it in a stone boat to the shores of Galicia, guided by the stars. This journey, according to medieval tradition, is known as the Translation.
The first references to the Translation date back to the Early Middle Ages
The Translation of the Apostle James
The word “translation” means transfer. In this case, it refers to the miraculous journey that brought the body of the Apostle James from Jerusalem to Galicia. Tradition tells that the boat arrived at the shores of Padrón, in Galicia. From there, the disciples transported the body, after many difficulties with Queen Lupa, to the place where the Cathedral of Santiago now stands. This story has made Saint James one of the most important saints in Christianity and has led millions of pilgrims to walk the Camino de Santiago.
The tomb of the Apostle James, which has been waiting for you for centuries
The Importance of Padrón in the Translation
Padrón, a small town in Galicia, holds a key place in this story. It is believed that this is where the boat carrying the body of the Apostle landed. In the Church of Santiago in Padrón, there is the Pedrón, a stone that, according to tradition, was used to anchor the boat. In fact, this is where the name of the town comes from, and from here, Pedronía, another Jacobean certificate that every pilgrim on the Portuguese Way can request. Today, Padrón is an essential pilgrimage point for those wishing to learn more about the history of the Apostle and the origin of the Camino de Santiago.
Pedrón beneath the altar of the Church of Santiago in Padrón
Legend or Reality? The Lack of Historical Evidence
Although the story of the Translation is fascinating, there is no solid historical evidence to confirm the journey of Saint James’ body to Galicia. The first documents mentioning this event date back to the 9th century, nearly 800 years after the Apostle’s death. However, recent research continues to follow the traces of this episode, which is so important to the Jacobean tradition.
For many, this story is a symbolic tradition that represents the spread of Christianity to the West rather than a literal account. Nevertheless, the faith and devotion it has inspired for centuries have allowed this legend to endure.
The crossing of the Sar River in Padrón
The Celebration on December 30th
Every December 30th, the Cathedral of Santiago fills up to celebrate the Translation of the Apostle: at noon, a procession by the chapter takes place, followed by a seasonal mass, presided over by the Archbishop. One of the most anticipated moments is the appearance of the Botafumeiro, the enormous incense burner that swings above the attendees. Its scent and movement create a unique atmosphere of solemnity and emotion. During the ceremony, the National Offering is also made, a symbolic act that pays tribute to the Apostle as the patron of Spain. As part of the celebration, you can also embrace the Apostle, another historical and popular tradition.
The Botafumeiro flying
Faith, Culture, and Tradition of the Traslatio
The celebration of the Translation of the Apostle James is a blend of history, religion, and tradition. Although there is no definitive historical evidence, the faith of the believers has kept this celebration alive for centuries. If you’re planning to do the Camino de Santiago at Christmas, you have a unique opportunity to witness the solemn mass, enjoy the spectacle of the Botafumeiro, and feel the spiritual connection that the Jacobean routes inspire. Furthermore, exploring places like Padrón allows you to learn more about the origins of this story and understand why Saint James remains such an important figure in Christian culture. Go ahead and experience this celebration and discover the magic of the Camino de Santiago!
Leave A Comment