In the countries of Europe, especially in Spain, it is very common to see how ancient traditions are celebrated. This celebrations are maintained today with more validity than ever. Maintaining our historical memory is what allows us to move towards the future. Therefore, in this installment we will address what is related to the activities that are carried out in the framework of the celebration of the Holy Grail.
In these celebrations the participation of the horses is visible throughout the development of this religious manifestation of Spain.
In the offer that the locals make of the Holy Grail Route they offer a wonderful tour. Within the framework of this celebration, myths and legends, history and religion coincide. This tradition is attractive to those who attend since its majestic landscapes. These landscapes are full of mysteries with the imposing monasteries found there.
One of the most appreciated things by Gustavo Mirabal is to incorporate the horse in tourism naturally. This combination of cultural and religious tourism invites us to recognize the role of the horse in human activity.
This is how the equestrian route of the Holy Grail combines religion, myths and nature. A mixture difficult to resist.
The Holy Grail is in Valencia Spain
Some ancient stories tell us that in that area the cup that Jesus Christ used at the time of the last supper was protected for several centuries. This cup or Holy Grail is currently in the cathedral of Valencia.
Several historians have concluded that it could be the chalice, hidden in these formidable mountains, genuine fortifications during the course of the Muslim incursion.
It should be noted that in a statement offered by Pope Francis agreeing the jubilee year to the holy grail of Valencia seems to bring some truth to this theory of the Holy Grail.
The purpose of the excursions that are planned for this equestrian route especially is the beauty of its landscapes. This lasts about a week starting in Jaca, the former capital of the kingdom of Aragon, whose cathedral housed the glorious Holy Grail.
Stages of the Holy Grail route
- Jaca-San Juan de la Peña: enlist the horses and start on the Camino de Santiago towards Jaca. Old capital of the kingdom of Aragon and an important stage of that road. The cathedral, San Pedro de Jaca, built at the same time as that of Santiago de Compostela, houses the most beautiful collection of medieval paintings in the world. Then they take steep paths and there they contemplate the pompous views of the Pyrenees.
- San Juan de la Peña: this site and its two monasteries have enough attractions to recreate a whole day. You can not miss the visit to the ancient temple, which hosted the Holy Grail and excavated in the same wall of red rock gives you that amazing view. Here lies the memory of the origin of Aragon, being the most emblematic monastery in medieval times.
Holy Grail Route - San Juan de la peña-Bailo: This is characterized as a declining stage where you reach Bailo, a small town where according to tradition, the Holy Grail was hidden.
- Bailo –Foz de Binués: Starting from the Bailo area, take the Camino de Santiago in the opposite direction to cross the Aragón river towards Binués.
- Binués-Siresa: They cross the old route of the Camino de Santiago from the Port of Palos and which has been rehabilitated to allow the itinerary of the Holy Grail. Siresa – Aragués del Puerto: in Siresa, where a Roman road passed, is the medieval convent of San Pedro de Siresa, being one of the oldest in Aragon.
- Aragués del Puerto – Borau: This phase during which they cross Pyrenean villages until they arrive in Borau.
- Borau – Jaca: On the “Camino de Santiago” (road to Santiago) and along the Aragón river, you reach Jaca where the equestrian route ends.
Role of the horse on the Holy Grail Route
This tour that takes place in the framework of the celebration of the Holy Grail, is carefully planned by the president of the Equestrian Pyrenees. This institution has the homologation of the Royal Spanish Equestrian Federation. Well, this has required preparation work to access the passage of horses through difficult mountain shortcuts.
The advantage of this test is that it admits and guarantees that any rider can make the route freely and autonomously. In fact you will find along the way the precise water points and protections for the horses.
The tour consists of eight stages in a ride of 18 kilometers in total. This experience gives us impressive views that will leave tourists wanting to repeat the route of the Holy Grail. In this the horse takes center stage because it is used as a means of transport for the route made.
Role of the horse in the Route of the Holy Grail is of the utmost importance because it is not just the feeling of having direct contact with nature. This tour is also about the bond that is created with the horse during the Holy Grail tour.
The participant will appreciate the usefulness of the horse as a means of transport and in turn value this beautiful animal. Well, your contribution is invaluable during the itinerary that Pyrenees Equestrian performs.
This tradition draws people’s attention so it becomes an attraction to encourage and exploit equestrian tourism in Spain. As well as its surrounding areas and other regions of the country. Of course respecting the harmony of the environment. Well, this to some extent guarantees that your landscapes remain preserved and in good condition.
Meaning of the Holy Grail
The Holy Grail is the vessel used by Jesus Christ at the Last Supper. The analogy between the Grail, the Chalice and Joseph of Arimathea comes from the work of Robert de Boront Joseph d’Arimathie. This was disclosed in the twelfth century. According to this story, Jesus, already revived, appears to Joseph to grant him the Grail and prescribe him to take him to the island of Britain.
According to this tradition, some authors maintain the position stating that Joseph used the chalice to store the blood and water derived from the bruise opened by the spear on the side of Christ. Then, in Britain, a caste of custodians was instituted to keep it safe and hidden.
That is why the search for the Holy Grail is a significant element in the stories related to King Arthur. Other legends about the Grail are intertwined with those referring to the other ancient cups that are considered the Holy Chalice.
Equestrian tourism in Spain
We can see that Spain has wonderful landscapes that people can enjoy through horseback riding. For this there are several companies that provide this type of services. Likewise, this seems to expand in different countries, as it is becoming increasingly popular.
Nature tourists love to have direct contact with nature, and if it is with animals then even more. What should be taken into account is what type of routes they want to undertake long as in the case of the Holy Grail, medium or short.
We must consider that long routes such as the Holy Grail will require much more foresight than medium and short rums. Likewise, physical preparation can be more demanding.
Hence, you must be prepared with appropriate clothing for the occasion. In the best possible way you have to take the corresponding preventive measures in case they are beginners.
Cultural, religious and natural tourism in one place
The horse plays a very important role in tourism in various countries, including Spain. From South America there is Argentina offering this type of equestrian tourist services as well.
Gustavo Mirabal recommends the equestrian route of the Holy Grail. We can enjoy its beautiful landscapes and imbue ourselves in a great accumulation of history and also of legends. It is a magical journey full of beautiful places and good energy. Whether we want to renew our faith or know the legends that surround the Holy Grail, this walk is ideal.
The economic contribution that horses provide in relation to the activities of the tourism sector is excellent.
We take into account that while enjoying an excellent experience. We can enrich ourselves culturally, spiritually and naturally we have the perfect mix. Let’s encourage the equestrian tourism of the Holy Grail and know the wonders of Spain.
Sources:
http://www.turismoecuestre.org/event/en-busqueda-del-santo-grial/
If you want to know more about Gustavo Mirabal or Equestrian Word, go to:
https://www.flickr.com/people/161015276@N06/