Many pilgrims throughout the ages have come to Chartres on their way to visit the relics of St James in Compostella, Spain. Here, they encountered James (the Greater) in the windows, on the porches, and through the symbol of the pilgrimage of the Chemin St. Jacques, the shell.

Shell, Chartres Choir Sculptures

James as an unidentified disciple. Ascention Portal,
West wall, Chartres Cathedral.

In Chartres, James is known as one of the disciples. He is not singled out (as is often the case in Spain), but appears primarily as one of the group of Jesus' closest followers.

James (unidentified) as one of the disciples at the last supper. West capital, Chartres.

There are several stained glass windows devoted to St. James in Chartres, one in the north ambulatory. It is coupled with a window showing stories from the life of Charlemagne.

Above the choir on the north side is a lovely window showing pilgrims on the way to Compostella.

Pilgrims to Compostella,
Choir Window, Chartres Cathedral

Another window devoted to St. James can be found directly across the choir on the south side. Here he shares a window with St. John the Evagelist.

Above the nave, on the south side is a fourth major window devoted to James.

The oldest represetation of James can be found in the crypt. There is a twelfth century mural in which he is depicted. He is the tallest of the figures, the third from the left. Near his head one can read, "Jacobus."

My study of James in the Chartres Cathedral continues. Please email me with relevant information. I will be happy to upload it here so that others can benefit.

Jill on the way to Compostella, 2006