Rock Art - Camino Style!

Rocks are everywhere on the Camino and can be quite troublesome.  Tripping over or rolling over rocks are a great source of pilgrim injury.  Wet rocks especially on hills invite slipping.  Over the past four weeks I have seen as pilgrims make rock art as well.  It basically is the stacking or grouping of rocks.

Historically, rocks were part of the Camino in two ways.  First, was the building of the Cathedral in Santiago as pilgrims brought stone for the project from all over Europe.  Second and more widespread was the carrying of stones for the added weight of penance on the journey.  A someone who rips pages out of his guide book I can affirm every ounce counts!

The rocks today for "Rock Art" are found and not carried here.  Where they are most abundant you find the most art.  But you have to get pilgrims to stop to make the art.  That usually happens after or before climbing hills as they catch their breath.  It also happens at very beautiful vistas or scenic areas as people take time to behold the beauty.  Lastly, it happens where pilgrims take bathroom break and those walking with them have to wait around.

Below are just some pictures I took of what I call "Rock Art" Camino Style.