Short hilly stage into Santiago. On the ´Grand Tours´ they would be sipping champagne as they approach the finish - but not for us. Stopped at City boundary to take photos and chatted to walkers from many countries.
Into the city and the Cathedral. Went to the Pilgrim Office (manned by volunteers from Tunbridge Wells) to get our ´Compostela´. This is a latin document certifying completion of the journey, demonstrated by the stamps in our passports collected along the way.
Tony G phoned Victor for our 2bedroom, 2 bathroom apartment with all facilities - including garden and bike storage in lounge behind the sofa! (don´t tell Victor). It is only 300m from the Cathedral.
Went to evening Pilgrim Mass and visited the sepulchre of St James (Sant Iago) and embraced the the statue above the high altar.
Went for a meal and chose a lively restaurant with great atmosphere full of locals. Sitting at the next table were Magda and Hugo - our Belgian cycling friends who we have met many times on the Camino.
Tony G insisted on taking us back via a short cut through the park.
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| Santiago City Limits! |
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| Outside the Cathedral |
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| Evening Pilgrim Mass |
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| St James´ Relics below high altar |
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| John, Hugo, Magda and Dan |
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| Cathredral from our Apartment |
Congratulations all
ReplyDeleteWe talked about your journey at Tuesday's ride and nobody could get the comment post to work. Kevan gave me some hints so here goes yet again. Anyway lots are following you from the club. And yes glad that you pilgrims have joined the many millions to complete it over the centuries.
Best wishes
Steve
Superb - many congratulations, it was patently obvious that the four of you thoroughly enjoyed the experience - next time, traverse of the Andes? (it'll be the same language!) Look forward to seeing you soon. Kev
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