Tuesday, July 16, 2013

The Camino scenery

The small towns that we go through are full of history. The buildings and bridges are of Roman influence, and date back to that time. Many invasions of the country have resulted in other influences altering the designs of the ancient structures.

We walk through many types of fields each day, which remind us of America's heartland. Some of the things that we have seen the farmers growing include: wheat, millet, asparagus, almonds, olives, artichokes, figs, berries, and walnuts. There are also several vineyards along the way for the wine industry.

We have walked miles, and miles(or should we say, kilometers, and kilometers)! Santiago de Compostela seems farther each day!

A few funny things that we have walked through include a tar pit, and a town with a free wine fountain, specifically for the pilgrims. The tradition is to fill your shell with wine(or water is also provided). Many people were excited to have free wine. We were excited to drink ice cold water out of our shells in the middle of nowhere!

We have been able to see many ancient cathedrals along the way. They are well kept, and very kind to pilgrims. One of the cathedrals in particular, is a world heritage sight, and one of the largest in the world.

Spain is very devoted to the Camino, and the peregrinos who trek the path each day. They provide hostals/albergues every 10-15 km for tired pilgrims. Luckily for us, they are between 5-10€ each night, and provide a mattress, bathrooms, and showers. The mattresses are usually on bunk beds, in a room that will hold 20-30 people of mixed genders. We enjoy the company of people from many countries including, but not limited to: Croatia, South Korea, Germany, United States, Hungary, Spain, France, Columbia, Denmark, Holland,and many more!

Well, that's it for now! As we say to fellow pilgrims - Buen Camino!

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