Pilgrimage

Jonathan Sumption explores the traditions of pilgrimage prevalent in Europe from the beginning of Christiantiy to the end of the 15th century.

Describing such major destinations as Jerusalem, Rome, Santiago de Compostella and Canterbury, he examines both major figures - popes, kings, queens, scholars, villains - and the common folk of their day.

With sympathy he evokes their achievements and failures, and addresses the question of what motivated such extraordinary quests.