The Bones of the Pilgrim Saint

The Church of the Virgen Peregrina, a monumental example of Mudéjar Romanesque architecture, overlooks the landscape of Sahagún, Spain. Founded in 1257 as a convent for the Franciscan order, the church has a rich history that includes a tumultuous journey of the relics of its namesake, Saint James the Elder, also known as Santiago Mártir. In 1245, King Alfonso X visited Sahagún at the request of the Franciscan friars and prepared the land for the construction of the church, which soon became an example of the Mudéjar architectural style, characteristic of the use of bricks.

However, the church has undergone numerous renovations and additions over the centuries. The exterior decoration dates back to the 14th century, while the interior maintains the austerity typical of the Franciscan order. One of the most intriguing aspects of the Church of the Virgen Peregrina is a painting representing the 'abrazo de Roma' between two religious figures. This painting symbolizes fraternity between the Franciscan and Benedictine orders.

Throughout its history, the church has served as a church, monastery, and hospital for pilgrims. In 2006, the church underwent restoration and turned into a cultural and study center for the Camino de Santiago.

Sources: Wikipedia, OpenStreetMap, Wikidata, Wikimedia Commons