One of the most representative symbols of the Way of St. James, which has accompanied pilgrims through the centuries, has been the simple, unpretentious pilgrim’s staff.
Its origins date back to the Middle Ages, when French pilgrims used a long wooden staff to help them on the challenging journey to Compostela. Although the etymology of the Spanish word “bordón” is not entirely clear, most sources relate it to the French “bourdon” –a specific kind of long spear.
From very early times, the staff was considered an indispensable part of the pilgrim’s equipment. In fact, there are numerous medieval artistic representations of pilgrims carrying staffs, and even the famous Codex Calixtinus mentions and describes this type of staff, explaining that bordones were often blessed in a ceremony before pilgrims set out on the Camino.
Unlike today’s walking sticks, the traditional staff used by medieval pilgrims was much longer, even exceeding the height of the pilgrim. It was a long, straight stick made of sturdy wood, usually topped with a knob or some other kind of thick circular molding. The lower end had a pointed metal tip. It was customary for pilgrims to hang a gourd from it to be used as a canteen.
Although the use and design of the traditional pilgrim’s staff has more or less survived to the present day, telescopic sticks have grown in popularity, as they are lighter and thus more practical. Made of stainless steel, aluminum or carbon fiber, these walking sticks can be effortlessly folded and stored when not in use, making them much easier to transport and store.
Despite the advantages of modern walking sticks, the classic staff still has great symbolic and emotional significance for pilgrims. It helps the pilgrim to cross the most difficult passages of the Camino and is in itself the bearer and witness of centuries of history. It is certainly an inseparable companion on the Camino de Santiago.
Whether you choose the traditional wooden stick or the telescopic one, the staff you choose will be a great ally during your pilgrimage. It will improve your balance, allow you to overcome obstacles more easily, and relieve the strain on your muscles and joints. In addition, it can even serve as a defensive element against any wild animals you may encounter along the way –snakes, boar, and even wolves every now and then. Remember that these animals should not be threatened, but simply kept away: gently knocking the ground with your staff will do.
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