Had a cool and fast walk to Santiago - got there as the temperature hit the 30s and went to mass . Actually went to mass twice - it was a great experience and very much geared to the pilgrims from all over the world who have arrived.
Also fascinating was the Botafumeiro which is a famous thurible found in the Santiago de Compostela Cathedral. Incense is burned in this swinging metal container, or "incensory". The name "Botafumeiro" means "smoke expeller" in Galician. The container swung high over us - we think to make the pilgrims smell nicer :)
Spent the rest of the dey celebrating - drinking sangria in the plaza outside the cathedral (because it was very hot and they had no French champagne), and catching up with other pilgrims - some of whom we haven't seen for some weeks.
The majority of peregrinos who have made it here are in a good state physically although there are some who can barely walk and a lot hobbling. But everyone is in great spirits and there's a sense of elation - despite Spain going down in the World Cup last night!
Congratulations, buen camino. What a fantastic effort. I have enjoyed following the trip with you. Have well earned rest tomorrow. Its funny returning to the real world again.
ReplyDeleteMany thanks , reality still 4 weeks away as now I do the opposite with Barcelona - New York - Vagas - San Francisco !
ReplyDeleteCongratulations guys! What a effort! I'll leave a post here in lieu of Amy ;)
ReplyDeleteThanks Nikki. It was a great adventure and such a great holiday!
ReplyDeletePeter - we have found thinking about reintegration into our real life very surreal. The shopping in Barcelona is helping to make that real! For me a week in Perth, will help as well. Poor ol' Gillian does it with a thud - work on Monday!