Arriving in Burgos

Our 12th day on the Camino was a delightful 22K stroll into Burgos, a major metropolitan area of about 175,000 people. After a week of villages of 20 to 200 people, it was quite a shock. 

We walked the whole way today with Paul, Mike and Herman. Unfortunately, Jesus Maria's injury from yesterday was serious and he has to drop out of the Camino. His wife is driving to pick him up in Ages. It's sad that his sudden injury has forced him to abandon his dream so quickly. 

As we came closer to Burgos, the way became very industrial with a lot of truck traffic. I convinced my doubting traveling companions to take a unmarked alternate route into the city along the river. Although they were reluctant, the last 5K was quite pleasant. Doubters. 

Burgos is  beautiful and historic city. As we got closer to the city center, you could see the amazing spires of the famous cathedral. 

At the cathedral, we parted ways with Paul, Mike and Herman who went to the albergue. Therese and I decided to stay in a hotel and spend an extra day in Burgos. We checked into the Meson del

Cid which is across the plaza from the cathedral. The view from our room is amazing. 

After a nice long, hot shower (and a bath for Therese), we toured the cathedral. The place was quite spectacular and impossible to capture adequately in a photo. The paintings, statuary, gilded alters and carvings are beyond description. It's hard to fathom the cost and manpower to construct. Here's one photo which shows the elaborate ceiling in one of the small auxiliary alters.

In the evening, we met Paul, Herman and Alicia for a farewell dinner as they are going on tomorrow. They need to finish by July 10. We will likely not see them again because they need to push hard to keep their schedule. We will miss our new friends and the varied and deep discussions we've had over the past two weeks. It's hard to say good bye. 

Our rest day tomorrow will be quite welcome. We will heal and re-energize and be ready to get back at it on Thursday. 

Today's good intentions are for the family of our daughter-in-law, Kristen - Maureen, Brian and Jordan.  They have welcomed Matt into their midst with open arms.  We love how he has a wonderful "second" family.