9th stage: from Santo Domingo to Belorado

The nineth stage of the Route leaves La Rioja Province and enters Burgos Province. Leaving Santo Domingo de la Calzada behind, it continues to Grañón. On its ouskirts pilgrims will see the Cruz de los Valientes (the Brave´s Cross) in memory to the scene of the Juicio de Dios (God´s Judge), which was held between the representatives of Grañón and Santo Domingo over the ownership of a pasture.

The dispute was solved favorably for Martín García, from Grañón, who is still remembered as a local hero. Walkers will find a typical example of a pilgrimage city , with a long main street. They can also view San Juan Bautista´s Parish Church, which is home to a marvelous Renaissance central Altarpiece.

Later on the path leaves La Rioja Province and enters Burgos Province through Redecilla del Camino, a municipality that extends along both sides of the Route. During the Middle Ages there were 3 assistance centers for travellers. Pilgrims will be able to pray in the Virgen de la Calle´s Church, built in the 14th century and rebuilt between the 17th and 18th centuries. It contains a magnificent Romanesque font from the 12th century. Another ancient monument is San Lázaro´s Hospital for pilgrims.

After passing through Redecilla, the Route heads for Castidelgado, where a long time ago, stood a monastery and a hospital, both dedicated to Santiago Apostle. Today, visitors can view the Count of Berberana´s Stately Home, as well as San Pedro´s Church (16th century) and Santa María´s Chapel, with a front from the 18th century.

The next village on the Route is Viloria, where Santo Domingo de la Calzada was born in 1019. The font in which he was baptized can still be seen in the Parish Church of Nuestra Señora de la Asunción. Then the Route passes through Villamayor del Río and finally reaches Belorado, the final stop of the nineth day of the journey.