SIGNPOSTING
Although nowadays we have plenty of geolocation devices available to us, in the Way we find the more traditional signs still standing. Respect them and follow them so you will not get lost – and you will avoid accidents.
Although the signposts in different spots of the Way has largely changed over the years, the Jacobean Council decided in 2018 to sort out the existing mixture of symbols to end the frequent confusion among pilgrims. Thus, the yellow arrow and the scallop shell became the only official symbols of the Way of Saint James.
THE YELLOW ARROW
The yellow arrow is one of the most common signs of the Way of Saint James, its meaning being very simple, as it points the direction to go. If you get lost admiring the landscape and stray off the main track, follow these yellow arrows and sooner or later you will find yourself back on track. The yellow arrow is a good ally, as it ensures you stay connected with the Jacobean Route.
BLUE CERAMIC TILES WITH YELLOW SYMBOLS
If you come across this sign, the blue ceramic tile with the yellow symbol, you are within the boundaries of a locality.
These signs mark the way that the pilgrim must follow through the locality.
MILESTONES WITH CERAMIC TILES
The milestones with ceramic tiles that we find along the Way of Saint James feature a combination of the two signs that we have talked about before: a yellow arrow and a blue ceramic tile with the symbol of the scallop shell in yellow. Their function is to guide pilgrims at crossroads and when there are sudden changes of direction.
ROAD SIGNS
The road signs indicate that you have to leave the road you were walking on behind and enter a new path to continue your pilgrimage. These blue panels consist of a figure of a walker on a white background, the yellow scallop shell and an arrow indicating the direction to follow. The sign below is used at junctions with roads and is usually accompanied by other traffic or warning signs.
INFORMATION PANELS
Information panels are boards you will find as you enter and exit the main localities on the Way of Saint James. They provide up-to-date directions, maps and recommendations. Further panels offer additional information, such as distances to the nearest towns.
SIGNPOSTING IN PAMPLONA
METAL CIRCLES
If you cross Pamplona, “the first on the Way”, as you walk along the French Way you will find some very characteristic metal discs embedded on the pavement.
These metal signs indicate the track you must follow through the city so as not to get lost, since the streets of the Old Town can be confusing.
You may also find them with a small drawing of a cyclist, indicating the way for those who do the Camino by bicycle.
