The Codex Calixtinus, also known as the Book of St James, is an anthology of background information and advice for pilgrims walking the Way of St James to Santiago de Compostela. Written in the 12th century by a Frenchman, it consists of five books, the first four of which cover aspects of the religious and secular history of the St James legend. The most interesting for me however is the fifth book which provides among its eleven chapters practical travel advice to the medieval pilgrim and is considered the earliest travel guide to the Camino, possibly even the first travel guide ever written. An original copy of the Codex is kept in the cathedral at Santiago de Compostela. Although a relatively short document - some of its chapters consist of only a few lines - it provides among other things information on food, the customs and peoples that will be encountered on the route, shrines to visit and scams to look out for. I found a copy of the fifth book on line before leaving for the Camino and parts of it made interesting - even entertaining - reading, particularly those parts on the people of the different regions you pass through. I look forward to seeing what may have changed over the last 900 years....
Did it recommend Vaseline between the toes 😂😂😂😂??? Probably goose grease or something in those days!
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