If you’ve ever heard of the Camino de Santiago, you’ve probably noticed the constant presence of the Camino Shell : the Camino de Santiago scallop shell. It appears on waymarkers along the trail, hanging from pilgrims’ backpacks, carved into monuments… this symbol is everywhere. But why is the scallop shell the symbol of the Camino and how did it become such a strong emblem of the pilgrimage?

Its origin is both ancient and mysterious, blending history, legends, and practical traditions. In the past, pilgrims returning from Santiago brought back a shell as proof of their journey, since scallop shells were abundant on the Galician coast. Today, carrying a Camino scallop shell symbol on your backpack remains a powerful marker of belonging to the Camino, and it often sparks connections with fellow walkers.

In this article, I’ll tell you the story and meaning of the scallop shell and explain when, where, and why you might want to get one if you’re setting off on the Camino.

My story on the Camino

When I set out on the Camino de Santiago, I already knew that the scallop shell was a symbol of the pilgrimage. But it was only once I was there that I truly realized how important it was.

During my first journey in 2018 on the Camino de Santiago in Spain, I walked the Camino del Norte before branching off onto the Camino Primitivo. Like many pilgrims, I hadn’t taken a scallop shell with me at the start. I thought it would be much nicer to buy (or find) one along the way—or maybe not at all, since I didn’t really feel the need for one. But very quickly, seeing other walkers proudly attach it to their backpacks made me want to join in too and carry “the proof” that I was a pilgrim.

It was when I arrived at an albergue on the way that I received my first scallop shell, given to me by a hospitalero. He told me that every pilgrim chooses the moment when they feel the need to wear one. For some, it’s right from the start; for others, it happens later along the road. I eventually tied my shell to my pack, and from that moment on, it became a true travel companion.

➡️ The scallop shell marks your belonging to the Camino, creates bonds with other walkers, and is a powerful symbol of this unique experience that is Santiago de Compostela.

Today, I understand why so many pilgrims feel the need to carry it. It’s much more than just an object—it’s a symbol of sharing, mutual support, and a lasting memory of the journey.

➡️ You can also find more information about another essential item on the Camino: the pilgrim’s credential.

Origin of the Camino shell

The history of the scallop shell and its connection with the pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela goes back many centuries, and as often happens, it is difficult to separate historical fact from legend.

A well-established historical trace

As early as the Middle Ages, pilgrims returning from Santiago de Compostela carried a scallop shell as proof that they had reached their final destination. These shells were easy to find on the beaches of Galicia, near the city of Santiago de Compostela, and represented both an authentic and symbolic souvenir of the journey completed.

Over time, the shell became a true mark of identity for pilgrims. At a time when false pilgrims were numerous—some seeking to take advantage of the privileges granted to genuine walkers—wearing a scallop shell on one’s cloak or staff was a way to prove the authenticity of the pilgrimage.

Legends surrounding the camino de santiago shell

Like any ancient symbol, the scallop shell is also surrounded by many legends. One of the best known tells that the body of the Apostle James was brought by boat to Galicia after his martyrdom. Upon its arrival on the coast, a horseman who had fallen into the sea was miraculously saved, emerging covered in scallop shells. This is said to be how the shell became associated with divine protection and the pilgrimage.

Other versions explain that the fan-shaped form of the shell symbolizes the convergence of the many different routes leading to Santiago de Compostela. It is an image that matches reality, since the various European paths gradually merge before reaching the cathedral of Santiago.

The symbolism of the camino shell

Today, the scallop shell remains a central element of the pilgrimage, whether for its spiritual, cultural, or purely practical meaning.

A religious and spiritual symbol

In Christian tradition, the scallop shell represents the pilgrim’s inner journey—a path toward purification and transformation. The converging lines of the shell symbolize the many different routes that all lead to one destination: Santiago de Compostela.

For many pilgrims, carrying a shell is a constant reminder of the deeper meaning of their journey, whether it is religious, spiritual, or personal.

➡️ You can also find more information about the reasons and motivations for walking the Camino in my article: Why walk the Camino de Santiago.

Camino de Santiago shell​ : A marker for pilgrims along the way

The scallop shell is not only worn on pilgrims’ backpacks—it is also an essential marker of the Camino itself. Stone waymarks decorated with a yellow shell on a blue background line the entire route and make it easy to find the right direction. These markers are present across all the European routes, always pointing the way toward Santiago.

A symbol of sharing and belonging to the pilgrim community

Even though today you don’t need a shell to prove you’re a “real pilgrim,” it remains a strong sign of recognition.

It makes it easier to connect with fellow walkers: on the Camino, seeing a shell hanging from a backpack is like seeing a badge of belonging—it naturally invites conversation and the sharing of experiences.

➡ Some pilgrims buy their shell at the very beginning, others find one or are gifted one along the way. It’s often a special moment, marking a deeper commitment to the personal journey.Si aujourd’hui on ne porte plus une coquille pour prouver qu’on est un « vrai pèlerin », elle reste un signe de reconnaissance fort.

Why carry a camino de santiago scallop shell as a pilgrim?

If you walk the Camino de Santiago, you will inevitably come across pilgrims with a shell tied to their pack. Some wear it from the start, others buy it along the way, and some wait until Santiago to take one home as a souvenir. There are no rules, but the question often arises: is it important to have one?

A symbol that connects you to other pilgrims

The Camino de Santiago is a personal adventure, but also a collective experience. And the shell is the rallying sign between those who share this path.

When you see someone with a shell on their bag, you instantly know they are walking the same journey as you. It creates a bond. A simple look, a smile, a “Buen Camino,” and the conversation begins. There is something reassuring in this visual marker.

On several occasions, the shell gave me the chance to talk with people I might not otherwise have met. We ended up walking together, sharing a stage, a meal, or just a simple moment on the road.

A keepsake full of history

If you walk all the way to Santiago, you will inevitably bring something back with you, and the shell is often one of the objects that carry meaning through the miles.

Some keep it tied to their backpack even after finishing the Camino, while others place it in their home as a reminder of what they lived. It becomes a tangible memory of the experience, an object that marks a turning point, a passage.

In the end, carrying a scallop shell is a personal choice. Some feel the need for it, others don’t. But one thing is certain: it is more than a simple tourist souvenir. It is part of the Camino—an object that tells a story and creates a connection.

Where to buy a Camino shell​ on the Camino de Santiago

If you want to carry a scallop shell during your pilgrimage, you have several options for getting one: before you leave, along the way, or once you arrive in Santiago de Compostela. Many local vendors, often located near the most frequented pilgrim sites, sell shells for about €1.50. They are often decorated or personalized, adding an extra touch to a keepsake already rich in meaning.

Buying your scallop shell before leaving

Some pilgrims prefer to have their shell from the very beginning, to feel like a pilgrim from the very first kilometer. You can find scallop shells online or in specialized shops. But buying your shell in advance also takes away some of the spontaneity. Many pilgrims choose to get one along the way, when the moment feels right. Personally, I think there’s no rush—it’s much more meaningful to carry a shell that has a story behind it.

Finding it on the Camino

In larger and mid-sized towns along the main routes, such as Pamplona, Burgos, León, or Oviedo, souvenir shops often sell them. Some albergues and churches also give shells to pilgrims. On the main Spanish routes, you’ll usually have no trouble finding one. On wilder or less-traveled paths, however, it can be a different story.

Buying it in Santiago de Compostela

Many pilgrims wait until they reach Santiago to buy their shell, as a way of marking the end of their journey. Near the cathedral, plenty of shops sell them—some engraved with the Cross of Saint James, others left in their natural form.

This is a good option if you want a memento of your arrival, but you won’t have it on your backpack during the walk itself.

Shells, patches, pendants: all kinds of variations

While the classic shell tied to a backpack is the most common, today there are many variations of the Camino scallop shell symbol:

➡ Patches to sew onto a backpack or jacket
➡ Pendants and bracelets
➡ Metal pins
➡ Mini-shells as keychains

Some pilgrims prefer these more discreet alternatives, but they still show their connection to the Camino. Everyone can choose the version that feels right for them.

How to recognize a real scallop shell

A real scallop shell is made of limestone or mother-of-pearl, with clear grooves and a curved shape. Plastic versions exist, but they are cheaper and less meaningful. Some shops sell engraved or painted shells, which can be nice if you want a personalized souvenir.

Ultimately, it doesn’t matter where you buy it—what matters is what it represents for you.

Whether you are a spiritual pilgrim, an adventurer, or simply curious, the Camino de Santiago scallop shell is more than just a symbol. It is a travel companion that carries within it the echoes of thousands of footsteps and prayers. If you set out on this adventure, don’t miss the chance to embrace this centuries-old tradition.

And who knows? Like me, you may find that once you’ve tied the shell to your backpack, you’ll never really part with it—even after the Camino is over.

➡ You’ll also find more tips for walking safely in my article about the dangers on the Camino de Santiago.