Saint James
First century.
Feast Day: July 25.
Patron of: Spain. Pilgrims. Equestrians. Druggists.
James the Greater was one of the original apostles. According to tradition he preached the gospel as far as Spain. He returned to Judea and was put to death. His body was set out in a boat which washed up on the coast of northern Spain. The great Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela was built to house his relics. This became a great pilgrimage center. Saint James was the patron of the Christians fighting off the Moorish invaders. He is shown in pilgrimage garb on a white charger leading the battle.