Issue date: 05 Sep, 2019
THE ROUTES OF ST JAMES’ WAY IN NORTHERN SPAIN
The Camino Primitivo or “first way” is one of the routes with the longest history. This path leads to the authentic roots of the pilgrimage.
It begins at the majestic Oviedo Cathedral and runs through inland Asturias. The route enters Galicia through Lugo, merging with the Camino Francés or “French way” in Melide.
The Camino Primitivo is 255 kilometres long, and is usually divided into 14 stages, each 25 kilometres long. This route is considered one of the most charming, so following it is a very special adventure.
Correos is issuing a new booklet on St James’ Way in Northern Spain, part of UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage. Last year it issued another booklet on the coastal Camino, and next year the series will continue with the Camino de Liébana, concluding in 2021 with the Camino in the Basque Country and La Rioja, coinciding with the Jacobean Year. This year’s is dedicated to the Camino Primitivo, featuring the provinces and important sights on the route.
One of the stamps shows the Camino Primitivo as it passes though the province of A Coruña, and the Cruceiro de Melide, the oldest stone wayside cross in Galicia. Dating from the 14th century, its iconography depicts Christ on the cross and enthroned.
Lugo is represented on another stamp by its Cathedral. In the Galician Romanesque style, it reveals a mingling of the influences of France and Santiago de Compostela.
The city of Oviedo features on the other two stamps. One shows its Cathedral, with thirteen centuries of history, important both as a work of architecture and for its historical significance.
The other depicts the statue of Alfonso II on Calle Águila. This king of Asturias was decisive in the creation and promotion of the shrine of Santiago de Compostela.
The background of the booklet shows the typical landscape of St James’ Way: green mountains and shells.
Rate A - €0.75. For a “standard” letter or postcard within Spain, up to 20 g.
Rate A2 - €0.85. For a “standard” letter or postcard within Spain, between 20 g and 50 g.
Rate B - €1.65. For a “standard” Ordinary International letter or postcard addressed to Europe (including Greenland), up to 20 g.
Rate C - €1.75. For a “standard” Ordinary International letter or postcard addressed to the rest of the world (except USA, Canada, Japan, Australia and New Zealand), up to 20 g.
Rate D - €2.10. For a “standard” Ordinary International letter or postcard addressed to the USA, Canada, Japan, Australia and New Zealand, up to 20 g.