An international recognition for work along the Camino
The Saint James Confraternity of Croatia has been awarded the Elías Valiña Award, one of the most important awards granted to associations and entities that work for the dissemination, protection and promotion of the Camino de Santiago. The recognition highlights the constant work of this organization in the recovery of routes, the signaling of paths and the dissemination of Jacobean values in Europe.
This award highlights the efforts of volunteers and collaborators who, for years, have worked to bring the spirit of the Camino closer to new territories and new pilgrims, keeping alive a tradition that transcends borders.
The development of the Camino in Croatia
One of the most notable aspects of the fellowship's work has been the recovery of old historical routes and the creation of new marked itineraries. Thanks to this effort, Croatia today has a network of roads that allow pilgrims to travel around the country following Jacobean symbols and connecting with the great European routes.
Signage, the organization of cultural activities and collaboration with international associations have been essential for the Camino de Santiago to gain presence in this part of Europe. More and more pilgrims are discovering these routes and, in some cases, continuing their pilgrimage to Compostela.
The Camino as a European phenomenon
The recognition of the Croatian fraternity reflects an increasingly visible reality: the Camino de Santiago has become a European cultural phenomenon. In numerous countries, signposted routes have emerged that allow the pilgrimage to begin from one's own place of origin, maintaining the tradition of walking to Santiago as was done in the Middle Ages.
This international growth reinforces the character of the Camino as an itinerary that unites cultures, territories and people through a common experience.
The legacy of Elías Valiña
The award is named after Elías Valiña, a fundamental figure in the modern recovery of the Camino de Santiago during the 20th century. Their work in signage, especially with the yellow arrows, was key for the pilgrimage to gain strength again and attract thousands of people from all over the world.
Today, the award that bears his name symbolizes that same spirit: protecting the Camino, spreading its values and ensuring that it continues to be a space for encounter, hospitality and respect.
A Path that continues to grow
The recognition of the Saint James Confraternity of Croatia demonstrates that the Camino continues to expand and adapt to the times. New routes, new associations and new pilgrims continue to write the history of an ancient tradition that never stops evolving.
The Camino de Santiago no longer belongs to a single country. It is a shared heritage that continues to grow thanks to the work of people and associations that, silently, keep the pilgrim's flame alive.
