| What is it? |
Saint Jean Pied-de-Port is a tiny town at the base of the Pyrenees, where many Pilgrims start their journey to Santiago de Compostela! |
| What makes it historical? |
Saint Jean Pied-de-Port arose in the late 12th century following a regional takeover by the King of Navarra! It was a strategic place as a stronghold against French forces and as a stopping point before the treacherous climb over the Pyrenees! A quiet farming town, it is now known for hard cider (cheaper than wine), and jai alai, a Basque ball game sort of like a combination of lacrosse and racquetball! Since it’s in Basque Country, you could also call the town Donibane Garazi! |
| HOW CAN I HELP KEEP IT HISTORICAL? |
IT’S EASY!
- You can become a member of Les Amis du Chemin de Saint-Jacques de Compostelle!
- You can be a responsible visitor! That means respecting the signs and pathways and treating all structures and artifacts with respect! After all, they’ve endured a lot already to make it into the present! They’ll need our help to make it to the future!
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| How do I find it? |
From Lyon: ~488mi (786km) — 8.2hrs
From Marseille: ~433mi (697km) — 7.3hrs
From Paris: ~508mi (818km) — 8.5hrs
From Strasbourg: ~748mi (1204km) — 12.5hrs |
| When should I go? |
Whenever the mood strikes you! |
