Scallop Shells

I learned today that when the earliest pilgrims travelling the Way of St James to Santiago de Compostela reached the very last part of their journey, they collected scallop shells from the Galician seashore. Returning home, they would wear the shell on their hat or cape as a souvenir of their endeavour and badge of their faith. The scallop shell has been a symbol of pilgrimage, and of St James, ever since. Thanks to friendsoffriendlesschurches.org.uk (via Twitter @friendschurches) for the info.