The Pomeranian Way of St. James, also known as Camino Polaco del Norte (North Polish Route), is part of the Via Baltica (Baltic Route). This route, with its roots in the Middle Ages, led through Estonia, Lithuania, Poland, and Germany. It was reconstructed between 2011-2013 with the support of the European Union funds under the South Baltic Cross-border Cooperation Programme. The trail was officially opened and included in the network of St. James’ paths on July 28, 2013.

Trail Route

The reconstructed trail leads from Kretinga through Kaliningrad, Elbląg, Gdańsk, Sianowo, Lębork, Łeba, Ustka, Góra Chełmska, Kołobrzeg, Kamień Pomorski, Wolin, Szczecin, Świnoujście, Greifswald to Rostock.

Stages of the trail in Poland

• Elbląg
• Gdańsk
• Sianowo
• Lębork
• Łeba
• Ustka
• Góra Chełmska
• Kołobrzeg
• Kamień Pomorski
• Wolin
• Szczecin
• Świnoujście

Kołobrzeg on the trail

Kołobrzeg is one of the key points on the Pomeranian Way of St. James. An important part of this trail runs through Kołobrzeg, where pilgrims can visit numerous monuments and places associated with the city’s history, which also offers the opportunity for rest and recreation by the Baltic Sea.

Attractions and places in Kołobrzeg on the trail

• Basilica of the Blessed Virgin Mary
  The main church of the city, a place of prayer and reflection for pilgrims.
• Town Hall
  A historic building located in the city center.
• Lighthouse
  A distinctive landmark and tourist attraction.
• Port
  A place rich in history, associated with the maritime and fishing life of Kołobrzeg.
• Stefan Żeromski Park
  A place for relaxation and rest on the pilgrimage route.
• Monument to Poland’s Wedding to the Sea
  A symbolic place, important in Polish history.
• Eastern Ekopark
  A protected area with unique habitats of plants and animals.

Significance of the trail

The Pomeranian Way of St. James holds significant cultural and spiritual importance, connecting contemporary pilgrims with the tradition of medieval pilgrimages to Santiago de Compostela. The trail promotes international cooperation, cultural tourism, and the protection of the historical and natural heritage of the regions it passes through.

Summary

The Pomeranian Way of St. James, reconstructed between 2011-2013, is an important pilgrimage and tourist trail that runs through historical and cultural sites, including Kołobrzeg. It offers pilgrims and tourists the opportunity to delve into the rich history of the region, relax in picturesque places, and experience spirituality consistent with the tradition of pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela.

Photo by Anna Ptaszyńska