Burgos city after Silos detour (283.2km)

After our lift “blessing” from Martin we walked along the river and then made our way to the Albergue Emaus. We dropped our bags off, went for the best tapas lunch and then visited the major Burgos tourist attractions of the Cathedral and castle. I know we have used words like incredible before but WOW! The 13th century Gothic cathedral is huge, has multiple chapels inside, cloisters and art of the highest quality. It was completely restored in the 90’s and early 2000’s and looks brand new. We would not do it justice trying to describe it. There was actually too much to take in on one visit.
The castle ruins provided a view over the city and back along the Camino path we walked. Typically it was at the top of the hill which required a walk! Even our “day off” seems to clock up the steps.
We returned to check in. The Albergue is linked to the local Parish of Iglesia de San José Obrero and is very community oriented and has a distinct purpose to provide rest. The accommodation is immaculate, quiet and provides a reflective space, quite different to the hustle of many others. We got special treatment as a married couple.
We went to mass at the local Parish which had a lovely youth choir singing which was energising and a group of about 50 ladies had just completed a weekend retreat and were in full voice (video). It was so good to see a full church and do many young people. They invited the pilgrims up and gave us each a blessing.
At 9 o’clock there was a group “get to know you session” which really helps to make new Camino friends that we will undoubtedly meet several times in the next few weeks.
Marie-Noel, the lady running the Albergue was so welcoming. When she saw us at mass she arranged the blessing and invited us to join the community celebration. She held my hands in hers and her hands were just like mom’s (May) - so soft, warm and comforting. Thinking of you mom!
Burgos actually marks the end of the first phase “physical” and we enter a new phase “mental” with less beautiful surroundings …. See picture below.Read more