In a remarkable discovery, a recent investigation has confirmed that human remains found in 2019 beneath the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela belong to Teodomiro. He was the bishop credited with founding the Camino de Santiago over 1,200 years ago.
This finding sheds new light on the origins of one of the world’s most famous pilgrimage routes.
Discovery of the ancient tomb
The identification process was led by historian and archaeologist Patxi Pérez-Ramallo. It involved a detailed analysis of bones found in a medieval necropolis under the cathedral. Teodomiro, who was the bishop of Iria Flavia (modern-day Padrón), is said to have discovered the tomb of the apostle James (Santiago) in a remote Galician forest. Eventually, this discovery led to the establishment of Santiago de Compostela as a major pilgrimage destination.
The excavation took place in 2019 when a team uncovered a box sealed since the 1950s, containing a skull, ribs, and other bones. These remains, now confirmed to belong to a man who likely lived around 820 AD, match the timeline and lifestyle expected of Teodomiro.
DNA analysis confirms identity
DNA analysis played a crucial role in the identification process, El País writes. Scientists found that the bones showed a diet consistent with someone of high status, such as a bishop, and had characteristics that linked Teodomiro to the region near Santiago, with possible roots tracing back to Roman North Africa.
The research, involving international experts like Tom Higham from Oxford University, was published in the journal Antiquity. It concludes with 98% certainty that the remains are those of Teodomiro. Without this figure the Camino de Santiago might never have existed.
A lasting legacy
This discovery is not only a significant historical finding but also a poignant reminder of the enduring legacy of the Camino de Santiago, which continues to draw nearly half a million pilgrims each year. The remains of Teodomiro will now be reinterred in a visible place within the cathedral. Herewith, honouring his role in the history of one of the most important pilgrimage sites in the world.
About the Camino de Santiago
The Camino de Santiago, or Way of St. James, is a network of pilgrimage routes across Europe. Each route leads to the cathedral in Santiago de Compostela, Spain. This ancient pilgrimage has become increasingly popular, attracting both religious and secular travellers.
The scallop shell is an iconic symbol of the Camino, representing the many legends about its origins. Pilgrims would collect scallop shells as proof of completing the journey. Today, the shell marks the route and represents themes of fertility and rebirth.
There are several well-known Camino routes that all end in Santiago, including the popular Camino Francés, the more challenging Camino Norte, and the historic Camino Primitivo. Other routes include the Camino Finisterre, Camino Portugués, and the newly opened Camino Antártida, which starts in Antarctica.
UNESCO recognised the Camino de Santiago as a World Heritage site, highlighting its cultural and historical significance. Today, the pilgrimage continues to attract people from around the world seeking spiritual, physical, or personal renewal