The Camino Frances

The Camino Frances

Sunday, May 25, 2014

Tumultuous!

Day 33 Arzua to Santiago 21 km

We were out the door before 6 am, and by walking steadily, with one break for cafe con leche and one bathroom break, and one chocolate break, we were at the Cathedral at 10:45. A record time for us, but we are feeling fine, but stirred up.
We checked into our room, and went back for the noon pilgrims´service. It was huge! The Cathedral was filled - perhaps 1000 people, and at least half were recently arrived pilgrims. There was no space even for more to stand! There was a great choir and small orchestra, and about 15 guys in white robes - priests - to serve the mass to all who came forward - perhaps half the people.
I teared up when they swung the botifumeria, right over my head. It takes 6 guys in red robes to keep it swinging back and forth, almost to the roof of the cathedral. There are videos on youtube if you want to see it in action.




I am about to join friends in a tavern here for a reunion. Here is Lawrence from Ottawa in front of the tavern with his compostela. I picked mine up this afternoon too. Now it is official. I walked 780 km in 33 days. Not bad if I do say so myself. And who knows what tomorrow will bring?



11 comments:

  1. Final Pop Quiz: Did you connect with Lise? She should be wandering the streets by Sunday, like you, sitting on steps, watching the sea of pilgrim groups in same colour T shirts. Calling out names to half-familiar faces. Now I am remembering our days in SdC. They were grand.
    Ok final final pop quiz: True or False, can you get up on the roof of the Cathedral legally?

    Look forward to picture/story night at the cottage.

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    1. I took the tour of the roof last visit here, so yes, you can!!
      Met Lise today in Bispo Taberna, and we will connect tomorrow.
      Doing my best with the pictures.

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  2. What a grand day. Congratulation.

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  3. felicitaciones - bien hecho Darlene and Wendy!!

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  4. Wonderful! Congrats to you and Wendy, bask in your exhaustion and exhilaration.
    Marsha

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    1. We are enjoying ourselves here in Santiago, where you meet a friend around every corner!
      Thanks to you all for cheering us on!

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  5. Darlene,
    Congratulations to you and Wendy on reaching Santiago in good health and good spirits! Continue to enjoy fully the experience.

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  6. wow...impressive Camino! Congratulations to you and Wendy. Can't wait to see you on our next walk...xoxo....j

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    1. Hope you and all the pilgrims will be out next thursday.

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