Scallop Shell

[almhath]

I read different accounts about the Scallop Shells, and my question is where to wear them?

Some say on the back of the rucksack. Yet at other times I've seen them around the neck, like a necklace.

Ideas?

 

[William Marques]

Wherever you find most comfortable and convenient. The rucksack is probably best for comfort but more likely to be damaged if it is put down roughly. Wearing one on a piece of material around your neck is very simple too.

 

[David]

Hi - most people 'wear' the scallop shell by tying it to their rucksack ... but, there are certain places on the way that you might like to tie another shell to a post or tree - you will see when you go.
Once on the Camino you will find many places to get them, very cheap - cheaper as you get closer to Santiago - .
Before you go you may buy some Coquille St. Jacques from the freezer department of your supermarket (shells filled with cockles in a cheesy sauce - eat the cockles and keep the shells).

You can trust to buy when you start or go to my website at http://www.pilgrimsupplies.org or similar.. (please don't think this is a commercial advert - they end up at cost and I include a tiny Camino gift).

Very few wear the scallop shell as a body ornament, nearly 100% tie it to their rucksack, though you can find smaller items such as pendants and lapel pins to wear.

Hope this helps :wink:

 

[mmm042]

I assumed I'd be able to find Camino items in all big cities along the way. But when I walked the VDLP, the only place I found Camino merchandise was Santiago! Not even in Sevilla, the start, and Spain's fourth largest city! I guess it's because the Via de la Plata isn't nearly as popular as the Camino Frances, where I've heard you can find Camino merchandise all over. Anyway, I'm not sure which Camino you'll be taking, but if it's a route other than the Camino Frances, you should buy online or you'll probably have to wait until Santiago.

Melanie