The construction of the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela in Spain began around 1056, marking a pivotal moment in the development of Romanesque architecture. This cathedral became a major pilgrimage site, influencing the religious and cultural landscape of medieval Europe. The significance of this site is reflected in the literature of the time, as it inspired numerous poems and narratives about pilgrimage and spiritual journeys.

The pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela inspired a wealth of poetry and prose, particularly in the context of spiritual exploration and the human experience. Poets like Berceo would later draw upon the themes of pilgrimage and devotion, reflecting the cultural importance of such journeys in their works, thus shaping the literary landscape of medieval Spain.