Historical Figures

Why is Saint James the Greater patron saint of Spanish conquistadors?

It is not true that Saint James the Greater is the patron saint of Spanish conquistadors.

Saint James the Greater is primarily celebrated as the patron saint of pilgrims and travelers, and is associated with the Camino de Santiago, a famous pilgrimage route in Spain. This might have led to some overlap with the historical context of the Spanish conquistadors, who were explorers, adventurers, and colonizers during the age of exploration.

However, the actual patron saint of the Spanish conquistadors was Saint Isidore the Laborer. Saint Isidore is a Spanish saint who lived in the 6th and 7th centuries. He is considered the patron saint of farmers and laborers, and he is also known for his great charity and devotion to God.