The High Point of the Camino

We reached the high point of our Camino this morning, both literally and figuratively.  Everyone woke early today in  order to be at the Cruz de Ferro (iron cross) at dawn. The Cruz de Ferro is at the highest elevation of the Camino at 1,515 meters (4,970 feet). 

The cross is on top of a tall wooden pole on top of a large pile of stones. The stones have been left their by pilgrims for centuries being carried from their homes or starting points.  By leaving the stones at Cruz de Ferro, the peregrino is leaving behind the burdens he has carried for so long. 

Some peregrinos leave messages on their stones. Some leave personal momentos. Others just leave their thoughts. It is a very quiet and reverential spot with everyone in their own thoughts.  You often can hear sniffles and sobs with people having very emotional experiences. It is quite remarkable. 

After Cruz de Ferro, we began a steep decent to Ponferrada for a total of 27K for the day. It was a hard (on the knees), but scenic, hike and we went through some lovely villages. It is a nice change from the pedestrian farming towns of the Meseta. 

On the last few kilometers into Ponferrada, we kept seeing these weird signs on random walls. It was just another unexpected Camino experience.

Today's good intentions are for The Team, my noontime running compatriots for 28 years at VCU -- Coach Forever Bob Davis, Eddie Blanks, George Monroe and Ed Acevedo.  They are a good group of friends who understand why I go on these adventures.