Mapping the cult of St James the Great in England during the Middle Ages: from the second half of the 11th century until the middle of the 14th century

Abstract

This study is the result of an investigation into the impact that the cult of St James the Great and the pilgrimage to Compostela had on the architectural landscape of England during the Middle Ages, as well as the relationship between English Jacobean dedications and the routes of communication existent at that time. The chronological period that frames this work, from the second half of the XI century to the middle of the XIV century, does not form a literal delimitation as foundations prior to this period have also been considered and the dates of several buildings registered are confused. The main objectives of this investigation are to demonstrate, in a visual way, the long-established existence of a solid Compostelanean devotion and also, to serve as a device which helps to visualise the plausible itineraries of the Jacobean pilgrims throughout medieval England.

Keywords

• st james the great
• architecture
• dedications
• england
• middle ages
• map
• pilgrim routes