The origin of all pilgrimages to Santiago
When talking about the Camino de Santiago, most pilgrims immediately think of the Camino Frances. However, there is a route that has a very special honor in Jacobean history: the Primitive Way.
Considered by historians and experts as the oldest Jacobean route of all, the Camino Primitivo represents the very origin of the pilgrimages to Santiago de Compostela. Long before thousands of pilgrims arrived from France, Germany or Italy, an Asturian king had already traveled this road to visit the place where the remains of the Apostle Santiago were found.
Therefore, walking the Primitive Way today is literally walking in the footsteps of the first pilgrims in history.
The journey of King Alfonso II
History takes us to the beginning of the 9th century.
After the discovery of the supposed tomb of the Apostle Santiago in Galicia, the news quickly reached the Kingdom of Asturias. The monarch at that time, Alfonso II the Chaste, decided to travel personally from Oviedo to check out that extraordinary discovery.
His trip was recorded as the first known pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela.
The itinerary followed by Alfonso II eventually became the Camino Primitivo, the first documented Jacobean route in history.
That initial route would open the way for millions of pilgrims who would later arrive from all corners of Europe.
An authentic and demanding path
The Camino Primitivo begins in Oviedo and crosses some of the most mountainous and spectacular areas of northern Spain.
For approximately 320 kilometers, pilgrims travel through ancient forests, mountain passes, traditional villages and landscapes that preserve much of their original essence.
Precisely that authenticity is one of its greatest attractions.
Unlike other busier routes, the Primitive Path It maintains a calm and deeply pilgrim atmosphere. Many walkers consider it the most spiritual and authentic path of all.
However, he is also known for being one of the toughest physically.
The continuous slopes, the changing weather and some especially demanding stages make the effort considerable. But those who complete it agree on one thing: it is worth every step.
Landscapes that leave a mark
One of the great treasures of the Camino Primitivo are its landscapes.
The route crosses some of the most impressive mountains in Asturias and Galicia, offering spectacular views for much of the route.
Oak and chestnut forests, small stone towns, old pilgrim hospitals and historic paths accompany the walker throughout the adventure.
One of the most emblematic places is Puerto del Palo, where the panoramic views allow us to understand why this route continues to fascinate thousands of people every year.
Many pilgrims claim that the Primitive Way preserves the essence of the Camino as it could have been experienced centuries ago.
History at each stage
In addition to nature, the Camino Primitivo offers enormous historical and cultural wealth.
Oviedo, the starting point of the route, is home to some of the most important jewels of European pre-Romanesque art. Monuments such as Santa María del Naranco or San Miguel de Lillo remember the historical importance of the ancient Kingdom of Asturias.
Along the route there are medieval churches, historic bridges, old pilgrim hospitals and small towns that have welcomed walkers for generations.
Each stage is an authentic outdoor history lesson.
An increasingly popular route
For many years the Camino Primitivo was an option chosen mainly by experienced pilgrims.
However, in recent years its popularity has grown significantly.
More and more people are looking for less crowded routes and more authentic experiences. The Primitive Way responds perfectly to that search.
Despite its harshness, thousands of pilgrims from all over the world choose it every year, attracted by its history, its landscapes and its genuine character.
Walk where it all began
Few routes can boast of being the origin of a tradition that has lasted for more than a thousand years.
The Camino Primitivo is not only the oldest Jacobean route of all. It is also a trip to the origins of the Compostela pilgrimage.
Walking it means following in the footsteps of the first documented pilgrim in history, crossing some of the most beautiful landscapes in northern Spain and discovering a different way of living the Camino de Santiago.
Perhaps that is why those who travel through it usually repeat the same phrase when they arrive in Santiago:
«The Primitive Way is not the easiest, but it is one of the most unforgettable.»
