Caught up on this blog before brekky.
Picked up by Pedro for our 2 hour drive to Santiago on the motorway. The border of Portugal and Spain is at the Minho River. We passed parts of the St James Way walk along the motorway which is the walk from Porto to Santiago de Compostela.
We are staying 2 nights at Parador de Santiago de Compostela which was a former hospital established in the 16th century by Catholic Kings to host and treat the pilgrims. It still maintains its gothic architecture as well as the luxurious gardens and delightful patios.
Santiago de Compostela was originally a stopping point on the Roman road, but the discovery of the Apostle James tomb at the beginning of the 9th century gave rise to a place of worship. From then all of Europe started walking towards Santiago, a holy city of Christianity where the grace of plenary absolution awaited them.
Santiago means "spanish name for St James", Compostela means " field of stars".
Once we arrived and settled in we had a walk and a beer and nibbles for our lunch at 1330. Had to put our watches on an hour. Sat and watched the walkers coming in to get their walking passports stamped. One thing for sure if we contemplate doing one of the Camino trails you only need a pair of sneakers, thongs and blister pads. You can pick up a stick on the way. No boots needed!
Dinner of yummy tapas at do Bistro recommended by the concierge.
Exiting Viga en route to Santiago de Compostela.
Our hotel on Santiago de Compostela - Parador de Santiago de Compostela.
Walkers going down to collect their certificates walking past us as we were comfortable enjoying our beers and nibbles!
Exhausted pilgrim walkers.
The finishing point in front of the Cathedral.
The Santiago de Compostela Cathedral under repair taken from our hotel entrance.
Dinner at do Bistro for yummy tapas.
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