In 1060, construction began on the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela in Galicia, Spain, which would become a major pilgrimage site in medieval Europe. This architectural marvel was built to honor Saint James the Greater, whose remains were believed to be buried there. The cathedral not only served as a religious center but also influenced the cultural landscape of Europe, shaping the spiritual and artistic expressions of the time.

The pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela inspired numerous poets and writers throughout the Middle Ages, including the anonymous authors of the 'Codex Calixtinus,' which contains early examples of travel literature and poetry. The themes of journey and spiritual quest found in these works resonate with later literary movements, influencing poets like John Milton and Dante Alighieri, who explored similar themes in their writings.