As modern pilgrims journey along the Camino de Santiago, they reach Ponferrada, gateway to the final stretch to Compostela. Overlooking the town stands the Castle of the Templars, where history, legend, and faith converge. This episode explores the Templars' quiet presence around Ponferrada, a story not of great battles but of town administration, fortified outposts, and a sacred vow to protect pilgrims. It pieces together who they were, what they did, and what became of them.

As modern pilgrims travel on the Camino de Santiago, they are fortunate to enjoy a wide range of tasty and safe food and drink options to keep them energized along the way. But for medieval pilgrims, the experience was far more challenging. This episode examines the foods that nourished pilgrims on their long and arduous journeys, the religious symbolism interwoven in bread and wine, and how overindulgence in food and drink was viewed as a sin. It will also explore the vital roles that monasteries, hospitals, and towns played in providing sustenance to pilgrims.

Pilgrims on the Camino de Santiago today are likely to encounter medieval miracle stories as they pass shrines dedicated to various saints along the route. This episode explores how miracle stories attributed to St. James supported the Camino and the wealth and prominence of the shrine in Compostela. It also discusses the central role played by miracles in the rise of the cult of saints and pilgrimage to holy sites.