From Hospital de Orbigo the landscape begins to rise a bit as we enter small pine forests, vineyards and walk along footpaths made of red clay earth. We were able to view the Roman mosaics, visit the cathedral and the Palacio Arzobispo designed by Antonio Gaudí.

Asturica Augustus (Astorga) was an important communications hub for the Romans and the most important city of this region of Spain, known as the Maragatería. So important was the city on the route to Compostela, that in the Middle Ages the city boasted up to 25 hospitals for the care of sick and injured pilgrims. We believe this as we joke that the only shopping any of us has done has been at the local pharmacy. We all know the Spanish words for bandaid, sunscreen, Naproxin and Tylenol.

In the evening, many attended the Mass in the cathedral, others explored the Gaudi designed palace and still others visited the local chocolate factory. Sadly, we parted with guides Jorge and Camilo as they moved on two their off season jobs.