Beijing exhibition brings Europe's ancient Camino pilgrimage to China

Editor's Note: A Beijing art exhibition has brought one of Europe's most famous pilgrimage routes to China.

The High Mountain Art Center is presenting "Camino de Santiago: The Road of France" through Aug. 23, featuring artworks by four artists who have walked the pilgrimage themselves. The exhibition coincides with French outdoor brand Lafuma's 95th anniversary.

The Camino de Santiago is a network of ancient pilgrimage routes across Europe leading to the shrine of Saint James in Santiago de Compostela, Spain. Pilgrims have walked these paths for over 1,000 years for spiritual, religious or personal reasons. Its most recognizable segment, the French Way, stretches 800 kilometers from the Pyrenees mountains through northern Spain.

The exhibition features Spanish artist Raquel Germade's exploration of women's experiences along the route, while artists Jose and Isa document how their Camino journey led to love and settlement. Roland Banka chronicles his solitary travels with a donkey companion.

The entrance to the "Camino de Santiago: The Road of France" exhibition at the High Mountain Art Center in Beijing, Aug. 4, 2025. Large illustrated posters welcome visitors to explore the pilgrimage's physical and spiritual aspects. [Photo by Liu Ziying/China.org.cn]