The way into Santiago took us through a not very attractive industrial zone, though we did find a great cafe designed for the workers in the area. But closer in, we saw the Cathedral spires from a new angle.
And closer yet, we were led down a beautiful street packed with little hotels and bars. This is the view through the terrace of one of them.
The church of St Martin - yet another massive church within coo-ee of the Cathedral.
The street leading past.
And sitting just beneath this balustrade, we saw the little group we had connected with most closely on this route - Martin from Mexico, Carlos (who we just met), Jonas from Argentina, and Katherine from the US via Lao and Sweden. We’ll be meeting up for pizza tonight!
We walked in together, past the garden of the Seminario Major.
Through the tunnel where the Galician pipers play all day to welcome pilgrims.
To stand once again in the Plaza. Though we just did it last week, we cried all over again - it’s hard to explain how moving it is to arrive at the end of each journey and how moving it is to see others finish their journeys, crying, laughing with all that it means for each one.
We have had a lovely afternoon, picking up some gifts for ourselves and others, celebrating at our special tapas bar, and visiting the Cathedral one last time.
Our train to Madrid leaves at 6.30 tomorrow morning, and we are heading to Jersey by Monday. We hope to post again tomorrow from the train. As ever, we have so appreciated your company on our way - thank you for sharing it with us.
Buen Camino,
Neil and Sarah
PS. There was a vintage car exhibition in the Plaza today. We think this might be a good way to come home!
Hearty congratulations, thank you for the illuminating travelogue, and warm wishes for the next leg to Jersey – a very interesting time to be in the UK at a time of national mourning. SJP xox
ReplyDeleteAn emotional return to Santiago for you. Enjoy your time on Jersey with family. What a time for you to be in the UK. Go well. xo Elizabeth R
ReplyDeleteYou’ve made it for the second time. Well done. What an accomplishment. How delightful to meet up with your fellow pilgrims for a final meal. Enjoy spending some quieter days in Jersey.
ReplyDeleteWith love. Kx
Thank you both for sharing your journey so far - for such evocative comments on lovely pictures. Wishing you many more adventures as you leave Spain for Jersey & the UK. Go well. Lyn P
ReplyDeleteCongratulations again and thank you for the sharing and the photos. Jersey may bring sadness, but also, hopefully, some reconnection, rest and recovery. Vivienne
ReplyDeleteCongratulations what a journey.
ReplyDeleteCongratulations on arriving (again)! Thanks for taking us along on your journey.
ReplyDeleteCongratulations Neil & Sarah for making it to Santiago twice on this Camino. It's been such a joy and privilege to vicariously walk the Camino with you again. Your photographs, humour, soulful reflections, joys and travails have been such a wonder for me, and I've loved every post. I hope your time in Jersey is wonderful too - and I'm sure Neil's mother Anne is waiting with open arms and heart to greet you. With love, Janet xx
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