Note: Châtellerault was one of the pilgrimage sites on route to the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela, home of the shrine dedicated to Saint James, the patron saint of Spain. The symbol of Saint James, the scalloped shell, became the primary symbol representing pilgrims. French pilgrimage routes to Compostela tend to follow old Roman roads, many of which continued to be utilized as primary roads of communication during the Middle Ages. Châtellerault lies north-northeast of Poitiers, on the primary road from Paris to Bordeaux. It is located on the Vienne River and derives its name from a 10th-century castle erected by the second Viscount Airaud of the district. The 16th century Maison des Sybilles is the site where the French philosopher René Descartes spent his childhood; it currently houses a museum devoted to the philosopher. Cutlery has been manufactured since the 14th century, but its main industry is the manufacture of armaments.
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