Another beautiful morning greeted us as we set out, along with Tom and Gerry, on our way to Pamplona, the first major city on the Camino. Many people walk alone, or in very small groups, as all seek their own most comfortable walking pace. Normally, Sara and Evan walk together as others speed on past. But on this day Gerry was returning to the hike after his fall (see The Legend of Tom & Gerry for the story). Gerry felt fine to go, but Tom worried that he might overdo it and wanted him to slow down. Since Sara prefers to walk slower, it worked out for all. Sara enjoyed talking with Gerry and walking……and walking.
In the morning, we passed the old church building pictured below, “The Abbey / St. Lucy’s”. It’s being renovated by Neil, who welcomed us and invited us in to tell us about the archeological finds and the process of renovation. He also offered some great advice. He advised us to look around, to see the marvelous sights and history that are available, but much of which is off the path, within a kilometer off the trail.
Neil recommended that an hour or so down the road, we could step off the path, climb a little hill, and visit a special village church of San Esteban (St. Stephen). It’s the only church on the Camino, he said, where you are invited to climb the bell tower and ring the bell.
And so we took his advice, walked off the path and rang the bell. Sara was especially moved by this old, sacred space. Gregorian chants were playing and they gave us copies of the Beatitude of the Pilgrims (which we will post later) Visiting with Neil at the Abbey / St. Lucy’s, and visiting the church of San Esteban became a highlight for today.
And 17 miles later we arrived in Pamplona where we are spending two nights to rest and explore the town.
