Visiting the Savior

Walked 11.5 miles today with three climbs and descents before reaching Oviedo’s San Salvador Cathedral. The sounds of music, very loud music, and throngs of people grew greater until we stood in front of the cathedral. Apparently we landed in the midst of the annual San Mateo festival, a celebration of music, culture and children’s activities culminating on September 21st with the feast of San Mateo. We immediately sought sanctuary in the cathedral receiving our final San Salvador stamp and certificate and enjoying some time for reflection in the cloister area and visiting the sacred room where the many sacred relics are housed including the shroud that is believed to have covered Christ’s face in the tomb.
Got to our hotel for a shower and then Ryan found us a great little pizza place away from all the festival happenings. Walked back through the lively streets to our hotel and now ready for some sleep while the festival goers continue celebrating.Read more