Il culto compostellano tra devozione e politica. Contributi per uno studio su pellegrinaggio e potere

Abstract

The paper explores the interplay between religious devotion and political power in the context of the medieval pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela. The study delves into the historical development of the pilgrimage, tracing its origins and growth into a major religious phenomenon in Western Christianity. It examines how political authorities influenced and utilized the pilgrimage to further their agendas, shaping its practices and infrastructure. Additionally, the research investigates the cultural and social impacts of the pilgrimage, including the dissemination of religious ideas, economic benefits to regions along the route, and the fostering of a shared European identity. The study also considers the religious practices associated with the cult of Saint James, as well as the material culture linked to the pilgrimage, such as relics and artifacts, and their significance in medieval religious life. Through a multidisciplinary approach, this work highlights the enduring legacy of the pilgrimage in shaping religious and cultural landscapes and its ongoing relevance in contemporary discussions of heritage and identity.