12/06/2011 Santo Domingo de Calzada


Today it overwhelms me. The beauty, breathing in the fresh air, the pleasure of movement, watching the grapes go by and eating them when I want. I ask myself if it could get any better than this, and tears of happiness burst out. The only thing I want would be to take you with me. But you are there, and I am here, so I take you along with these words and pictures.

Pilgrim momentos.

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Griboulli and I take a break in the remains of the Hospital St Juan de Arc, circa 1185.

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Hey, a beehive hut! I saw these first in Ireland. Maybe it’s an old pilgrim shelter…

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Pilgrims have colored these faces on the rocks inside. I am enchanted.

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Face

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Face
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Face

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Face

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Previous pilgrims have left their momentos. I place a pebble at the base, it seems like the thing to do.

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There are some good climbs, made harder by riding in dirt.

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I love riding into towns.

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Street scene in Santo Domingo de Calzada. There was what looked like a medieval fair happening. My hostel is in the upper attics of the church on the left. It costs a 5 euro donation to spend the night, get a hot shower, and use the kitchen.

There is a warm friendship and acceptance here. We learn where everyone is from and how far they are walking. People give me advice about where to go. I get a sideways compliment: “When I get old, I want to be like you.”

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My 10 euro “plate of the day” dinner. I did a little better tonight, the wine was fun and there was even a pineapple slice for desert.

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Thanks for riding along!

4 thoughts on “12/06/2011 Santo Domingo de Calzada

  1. travel on the way into a trip around the world is an unforgettable experience.

    I see you like Spanish cuisine, jejejejeej

    a hug, maikel

  2. People….people everywhere…wonderful people everywhere…

    Wow, I bet you never thought you’d be sleeping in an attic of a beautiful old church ! What a Kick.
    That’s really great !
    It looks like a continuisation of fantastic land wherever you go !
    And what a terrific surprise with the peaceful faces in the Beehive, tee..he. : )

    Is this a travel log for other travelers ??? FUN………Well ….You make it look easy……Not sure others could keep up your pace.
    Thanks for your sweet sharing ~ Cynthia

  3. Hey, I thought you would enjoy the rock paintings. Seems like something you would do.

    I want to say that if anyone might want to ride with me but is worried about the pace, not to be. I can cycle at your speed just fine. Picture a 90 year old man riding an unladen bike to the market. That’s how fast I go. I am more interested in the journey than in getting somewhere fast. Promise.

  4. Shawn
    Rich journeying!
    I’m listening to some Italian opera while facilitating a play date with Isabella and two school pals. They know how to live joyfully, and, apparently, you do, too! I’d love to join you at some point – with Isabella! Italy? If the funds are there, I’d do it. We shall see…
    Safe and pleasant riding, amigo
    Eric

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