Although Saint James the Greater died in the 1st century, the pilgrimage routes to his tomb in Galicia developed primarily during the Middle Ages. In France, several routes have led pilgrims to the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela for nearly 1000 years, with a significant resurgence in recent years that transcends purely religious considerations. Two pilgrim hostels welcome pilgrims on the Tours route: in Cartelègue, ARSEC (for reservations, call +33 6 45 46 56 95 or email arsec.cartelègue@gmail.com), and the town hall of Saint Martin Lacaussade (call +33 5 57 42 02 06).
Major routes and secondary routes
In France, there are four major pilgrimage routes (Tours, Arles, Vézelay and Puy en Velay) and so-called “secondary” routes, including four to reach the Pyrenees. We must imagine that over 1 years, pilgrims have had to adapt to the landscapes to best connect the major sites, giving rise to several routes taken.
In Blaye Bourg Terres d'Estuaire, it is the Voie de Tours which crosses the territory.
A path for whom?
If faith guides many pilgrims, in recent years there has been a new craze: many, of all ages, undertake this journey for non-religious reasons, because it is above all a beautiful journey. The idea is a bit to “find yourself”… There are people who want to challenge themselves, reconnect with nature, meditate, through long moments of walking which encourage introspection.
Each year, the cathedral of Santiago de Compostela has nearly 300 pilgrims.
It’s an opportunity to let go, far from the frantic race of time. We see pilgrims pass alone, with family or friends, on foot, by bike or on horseback sometimes. Generally, they do the paths in several times.
A Jacquaire cottage in Cartelègue
Roaming lodge and jacquaire for 1 night maximum.
A “Jacquaire lodge” in Cartelègue and Saint Martin Lacaussade: what does it consist of?
This is one of the itinerant accommodations for pilgrims on the roads to Santiago de Compostela. In Cartelègue, it was the will of the municipality, in the 2000s, which allowed the development of part of the town hall into a pilgrim's lodge and which still bears the costs. The reception is managed by volunteers from ARSEC (Association for the Restoration and Safeguarding of the Church of Cartelègue)
Is it enough to knock on the door to sleep in such accommodation?
Yes and no… In principle, you need to show proof of your pilgrim's credential . And it's best to let us know in advance of your visit, especially for the one to Saint Martin Lacaussade. A good quarter of the pilgrims call us in the morning as they leave their last stop, half more than a week in advance… and the last quarter arrive unexpectedly, but fortunately in Cartelègue we take turns in pairs to ensure a near-constant presence on site to open the church for them and show them around!
And… is it expensive?
The guesthouses in Cartelègue and Saint Martin Lacaussade operate on a "donnativo" basis, meaning that guests leave with a suggested donation . Most accommodations operate in this spirit: it's customary to thank your hosts or contribute to the upkeep of the premises, according to your means. There are also dedicated bed and breakfasts and hotels offering very low rates, averaging €10 to €20 per night.