The Roads to Santiago: The Medieval Pilgrim Routes Through France And Spain To Santiago De Compostela Paperback – June 15, 2013

I'm reluctant to find fault with this handsome, informative, engaging book; however, two things work in its disfavor and keep me from giving it five stars. The type is much too small for comfortable reading, especially the photo captions. The photos are so good that one doesn't like being so challenged when trying to find out where they were taken. Secondly: There is no adequate comprehensive map; instead, tiny segments are shown every couple of pages or so that give no idea of their relationship to the rest of the journey, nor are they oriented to the compass.I am a fan rather than a scholar of Romanesque architecture, but I think I'm safe in saying that the text is clear and accurate. Brabbs writes well; he knows his subject, and his enthusiasm is infectious. Get a good map and a magnifying glass, and then buy this book, either before you go or, if the idea of the pilgrimage is too daunting, instead of going.

As a student in Spain decades ago, I often traversed the beautiful towns on the Camino de Santiago, and thought it would make a wonderful picture book. I was delighted to see it in a museum's catalogue for over $60, so I checked on Amazon and got it for less than $40. The author did a wonderful job of photographing and detailing the routes to Santiago. The book is extremely well done, both in words and photographs. To my mind, it's well worth buying.

This book prepared me for my pilgrimage to Santiago. Historical background to ancient relics are both accurate and succinct. The pictures are gorgeous and better than real life. Imagine my surprise when I see the same statues covered in moss or bird droppings. Some of the churches on the road to Santiago are in a decrepit state, it's a real pity the Spanish government does not take care of its heritage.

this book is well researched, has spectacular photographs, is full of historical information.. a fine book..

A lively description that gets the imagination going. Will I ever go? Who knows--but now the trip is on my bucket-list.

I bought this book solely for the photographs, they are very good. These are to trigger my memories of my Camino. However, if you cannot walk the Camino this is a good book to give you the feel of that walk. But, why not do it yourself!

Excellent guide and history. Lavishly illustrated.

Thank you!

A wonderful book with brilliant photos. I read the last section first because I knew someone who was walking the route. Now I am working my way through France ( in the book) and it has given me the urge to see these places.

A great book very interesting with nice pic. Highly recommendable even though you don't want to make the pilgrimage like meFor the ones interested in middle ages architecture and history

Fabulous book with superb images

Rather too large a format but I love his photography skills

The book was used, but appeared brand new. It arrived early. The price was reasonable. I would recommend it to anyone who has made or is considering making the pilgrimage on the camino to Santiago, or the other routes featured in the book. The photos are beautiful. I would highly recommended the book, and the trip!