Capilla de San Lázaro

Capilla San Lázaro | Wikicommons. Autor: Norrin strange

A refuge full of history on the Camino de Santiago

In the heart of the bucolic surroundings of Sarria, a popular starting point for many pilgrims on the Camino de Santiago, is a corner of devotion and serenity: the Chapel of San Lázaro. Over the centuries, this sacred building has served as a point of spiritual refuge, where travelers can find a moment of peace before embarking on the last significant stage of their pilgrimage. The chapel, although modest in size, shines with an aura of reverence, becoming a refuge from history on the Camino de Santiago. 

The history of the Chapel of San Lázaro is rooted in medieval traditions, when it was established to care for lepers and other sick people who sought healing and comfort. It is believed that the original could date from the 13th century, being a palpable testimony of the deep tradition of hospitality and care that characterizes the Camino de Santiago. Although it has been restored several times, the echoes of the prayers and hopes of countless pilgrims still resonate in its walls.

Architecturally, the chapel stands out for its simplicity and elegance. Its structure, which evokes Romanesque architecture, features a single nave that leads to a semicircular apse, a design that encourages introspection and silent prayer. The ancient stone that makes up its walls seems to tell stories of faith and perseverance, offering a tangible link with the pilgrims of the past who also sought refuge here.

Throughout the year, the Chapel of San Lázaro hosts various religious and cultural celebrations, maintaining its relevance in the local community and on the Jacobean route. It is common to see modern-day pilgrims stopping to light a candle or offer a prayer, thus continuing the pilgrimage. a tradition that has united generations of travelers in an unbroken chain of faith and hope.

When visiting the Chapel of San Lázaro, one can expect to experience a deep connection with the diverse stories that make up the Camino de Santiago. It is a place where the past and the present meet, offering a unique opportunity to reflect on each person's personal journey, both physical and spiritual, on the road to Santiago de Compostela. A place that, with its serene presence, reminds all pilgrims of the essence of humility, charity and community that defines the true essence of the Camino de Santiago.