Outside of the Basilica of Saint Peter's in Rome and the Holy Land, Santiago de Compostela, translated Saint James of the Field of Stars, is the third largest shrine in all of Christendom.

Situated in the Northwest corner of Spain, not far from the Atlantic coast, this medieval city is home to reverent Spanish Catholics and the tomb of Saint James the Great, one of the "sons of thunder" spoken of in Scripture and the Holy Apostle credited with converting the Iberian peninsula to Christ.

While campaigning for conversions, the Blessed Virgin Mary appeared to Saint James and encouraged his crusade for her Divine Son. Our Blessed Mother's visitation led GOD's Church to recognize His Immaculate Mother as Our Lady of the Pillar.

St. James, in turn, appeared in dreams to Charlemagne, King of the Holy Roman Empire. No surprise. Both their ancestors descended from Jesus' lineage -- the House of David.

Santiago was the first Apostle martyred, done in by Herod in Jerusalem around 40 A.D.

The once feared Knights of Santiago, a.k.a. the Order of St. James of the Sword, are custodians of the Basilica. Their solemn presence evokes awe, as they move about the town in black cassocks bearing the red Cross of Santiago emblazoned upon their chests.

Santiago de Compostela possesses charming, warm-hearted people and cobble-stone streets reminiscent of olden times. Some of the best seafood this side of heaven may be found in any of many quaint and friendly cafes.