Voto de Santiago facts for kids

The Voto de Santiago was a special promise and gift made by the Christian kingdoms of Asturias, Galicia, León, and Castille. They made this offering to Saint James and his cathedral in Santiago de Compostela. It was a way to thank the saint for what they believed was his amazing help in winning the famous battle of Clavijo against the Moors. This battle happened because the Christians refused to pay a tribute called the Tribute of 100 Damsels to the Emirate of Córdoba.

This promise to Saint James was made by Ramiro I of Asturias before the battle in a place called Calahorra. He offered Saint James a part of the treasures taken from the Moors, along with the first fruits and crops from each year's harvest. This type of offering is called an ex voto. The Voto was paid for through a special tax. It was officially renewed and made into a national festival in 1643 by Philip IV of Spain to celebrate Saint James's feast day on July 25. However, it was stopped in 1808 by a law called the Bayonne Statute.

What Was the Voto de Santiago?

The Voto de Santiago was like a big "thank you" gift. It was a promise made by several Christian kingdoms in what is now Spain. They believed that Saint James had helped them win an important battle.

The Promise to Saint James

King Ramiro I of Asturias made this promise to Saint James. He said that if they won the battle, they would give the saint a share of the treasures they took from their enemies. They also promised to give the first part of their yearly crops and fruits. This special gift was known as an ex voto, which means a gift given in thanks for a wish coming true.

How the Voto Was Paid

To make sure the Voto was paid every year, a special tax was created. This tax helped collect the money and goods needed for the offering to Saint James and his cathedral.

The Battle of Clavijo

The Voto de Santiago is closely linked to a legendary fight called the battle of Clavijo. This battle was a very important event in the history of the Christian kingdoms.

Why the Battle Happened

Before the battle, the Christian kingdoms were forced to pay a tribute to the Moors, who ruled parts of Spain. This tribute was known as the Tribute of 100 Damsels. It was a very unfair payment. The Christians decided they would no longer pay it, which led to the battle.

Saint James's Help

During the battle, the Christians believed that Saint James appeared on a white horse. They thought he helped them fight and win against the Moors. This belief made Saint James a very important symbol for the Christian armies.

History of the Voto

The Voto de Santiago started as a promise made during a battle. Over time, it became a formal tradition and then was eventually stopped.

Becoming a Festival

In 1643, King Philip IV of Spain made the Voto de Santiago even more important. He turned it into a national festival. This celebration took place every year on July 25, which is Saint James's feast day. It was a big event for the whole country.

When the Voto Ended

The Voto de Santiago continued for many years. However, in 1808, a new law called the Bayonne Statute was put in place. This law officially ended the Voto de Santiago, stopping the tradition of the special offering and festival.

See also

• In Spanish: Voto de Santiago para niños