The Ghent Altarpiece: The Pilgrims

This panel is devoted to the pilgrims, who were an important feature of medieval religiosity.

They are led by St Christopher, the patron saint of pilgrims and travellers and, according to his legend, a giant.

At his side stands a pilgrim wearing badges from the three great pilgrimages - Compostela, Rome and Jerusalem. He might be Jodocus, patron saint of donors.

The background is that of a beautiful Mediterranean landscape, which is one of the altarpiece's greatest glories.