Mapping the Way of St. James

Abstract

Abstract Every year, more historians and scholars in related humanities disciplines are using Geographical Information Systems (GIS) and mapping technology in their research. The field of spatial history/spatial humanities is growing. Yet, many scholars are still unaware of the potential of using mapping technology to interpret the past and further their academic research. Mapping helps us to see the movement of people and ideas over time and thereby raises new research questions. This article seeks to introduce readers to the field of spatial history and to illustrate the potential of GIS by examining the medieval pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela. In particular, the article uses spatial analysis to add further evidence that Aimeric Picaud, the author of the twelfth-century Pilgrim’s Guide to Santiago de Compostela, likely did not make the trip as described in his text.