Saint James the Greater is one of the twelve apostles of Jesus Christ and is often recognized as the first apostle to be martyred. He is traditionally depicted as a pilgrim, often shown with a staff and a scallop shell, which symbolizes his journey to Santiago de Compostela in Spain. His feast day is celebrated on July 25. Saint James is the patron saint of Spain and pilgrims. His life and works are documented in the New Testament, particularly in the Gospels. He is believed to have preached in Spain before returning to Jerusalem, where he was executed by King Herod Agrippa I.