The Role of the Way of St James in Local Development. A Case Study in Palencia

Abstract

The ‘French’ Way of St James crosses the province of Palencia. In the municipalities along the track the trajectory is a development resource after the 2008 financial crisis and the celebration of the Holy Year in 2010. This paper describes and analyses the socioeconomic impact along the route during the second decade of this century. The study is based on primary and secondary sources, including fieldwork. Basic data are mapped. The wealth generated by the Palencia track because of pilgrim and tourist spending has not been able to revert the ageing and loss of population. Despite the celebration of the 2021/2022 Holy Year the paralysis caused by the covid-19 pandemic has reduced the capacity of the local tourism industry.