Saint James and Menorca’s farming tradition

Saint James’s Day, celebrated on 25 July, was traditionally the only day of the year when farmers took the opportunity to go to the seaside and spend the day there. The Saint James fishing trip, together with lunch and an afternoon meal by the sea, marked this special occasion. When dusk arrived, it was time to return to the farm.

Saint James is one of the most important universal myths of the Middle Ages, together with that of the Holy Grail. It embodies a universal example of searching and self-improvement, a true initiatory journey towards the essence of the human being. The Way of Saint James attracts thousands upon thousands of pilgrims every year. From different parts of Europe, they begin their pilgrimage, their initiatory journey towards Compostela, where the tomb of the apostle is said to be located. Santiago de Galicia, or Santiago de Compostela, is, together with Rome and the Holy Land, one of Christianity’s main pilgrimage destinations.

However, July also includes other celebrations that have existed since ancient times. It is, above all, the month of rituals devoted to the sun, the source of life and a symbol of divinity.