Day 3 Castrojeriz to Frómista- 27 klms
Our exit again is early and we climb the wall of this stoney basin, as dawn breaks behind us, alighting rich hues in the surrounding rock. Again the day`s march is tough in the heat, with uninteresting countryside by which to distract the discomfort. We march along a canal, along a stoney path, which does not help Paolo`s injuries. His pain level reaches 8/10, which is distressing for him and us all, but we urge him on.
We reach Frómista and I learn the it gets its name from the Roman word `Frumemtum`, which means wheat, which the region grew in great amounts. There are wonderful Roman (10th Century) Churches. One `San Martin` is just opposite our refuge, however it costs 1 Euro to enter, only to find the Church empty of its former glory. The great irony, one that i notice in many places, is that the functioning Gothic Churches with incredible works of art and sanctuary from the oppressive heat, have free entry, but few visitors. Quite perverse really! At Aix-en-Provence the Church which sits next the Picasso/Cezanne exhibition, houses amongst many works of art, an original work of Eugene Delacroix, but has few visitors. I find a seat amongst the empty pews and enjoy the moments of silent, cool meditation..sublime.