One third of 'The Way'- Burgos!

Arriving in the Castilian city of Burgos was a wonderful milestone- we had walked one third of the Camino de Santiago!

The walk into Burgos took us down from the mountainous climb out of Atapeurca following a goat track up onto a windy plateau with a lone cross. Many pilgrims had left stones and messages there. We paused in silence, grateful for all- especially the ancient human ancestors who had lived here a millennium ago. People had created a simple stone labyrinth atop the plateau which later, some young pilgrims we met told us they had danced through!

After descending the plateau, passing through villages nestled on the flat between hills, we followed the River Arlanzon into Burgos. Even though we'd walked down from the mountain plateau, The elevation is still quite high, around 850m.

The trees were turning their leaves and it was refreshing to be near bush and running water after the wide stony brown paddocked terrain. I did notice a forestry sign which particularly featured the species of European viper native to the area. That quickened my step considerably- willing any stray vipers to stay in their hidey holes!!

After walking for a week straight, a rest day to soothe the feet and muscles was in order! The famous Spanish hot chocolate and Churros was also at the top of the list! (there's a Spanish cafe in Chatswood Westfield you can try it next tine you go to the movies boys!!)

Burgos was the seat of the Castilian Kings and the Burgos Cathedral de Santa Maria is built on the site of the old castle.

Built in the 13th Century and added to in the 15th and 16th Centuries it is one of the most magnificent of Spain. With strong ties to the Camino de Santiago, it is a temple of art and architecture. Many artisans and artists being commissioned to adorn it with their work from all over Europe. There was a Da Vinci there of Mary Magdalene and I recognised some of the artworks of Mary some of you did for your RE assignment last term!!

Fun Fact: like Pamplona, Burgos has bull running through the streets and also an El Torro stadium for bullfighting- July- Sept.

Count Rodrigo Diaz de Vivar, the champion was better known as EL CID, a Muslim title for respect. Born in 1040, the Camino passes the site of his house- see the pic of the gate through the walls of the city. He died recovering the city from the Moors. He must have been a remarkable person to have earned his title and remembrance from his own and enemies alike. He and his horse are interred in the Cathedral and a huge monument of him on his horse dominates a plaza near where we stayed. Try an internet search on El Cid or Burgos Cathedral or if you dare...European Vipers in Spain!

Next part of the journey- across the Meseta. Remember those desert landforms in Geo? Mesas? We're going to walk up onto a few and across them for the next 5 days to the city of Leon. Adios amigos till then!Read more