The Camino de Santiago is surrounded by legends. On occasion we have spoken of the miracle of the Rooster and the Hen, in which both animals saved a sick child whose parents decided to walk the Camino with him.
Well, this time we come with another of the most talked about stories surrounding the Camino, and that is the legend of Matamoros or Santiago Matamoros.

As we say, this is one of the best known and is closely linked to the apostle Santiago.
According to tradition, during the Reconquest of Spain, when the Christians were fighting against the Muslims, it is said that the apostle Santiago appeared in several battles mounted on a white horse and carrying a sword.

On one occasion, during the Battle of Clavijo, the Christian army was being outnumbered by the Muslims and was on the verge of defeat. At that critical moment, the apostle Santiago appeared in the middle of the battle on his white horse, brandishing his sword and leading the Christians to victory. It is said that his intervention was decisive and that the Muslims were defeated.

This legend has been maintained over the centuries and is depicted in numerous artistic representations and sculptures along the Camino de Santiago. Santiago Matamoros is depicted as a horseman in armor, carrying a sword aloft and trampling a Muslim warrior. He is considered the patron saint of knights and warriors, and his figure symbolizes the triumph of the Christian faith over the enemies of Christianity.

And as we have emphasized from the beginning, this is a legend and we think it is important to emphasize that nowadays the most valued aspect when walking the Camino is the spiritual and pilgrimage aspect of the way, promoting coexistence, respect and tolerance among all people, regardless of their origin or religious beliefs.

And you, do you know of any other legend attributed to the Camino de Santiago?