Day 24: Foncebadón to Ponferrada

The short (2.5km) climb through icy fields to the Cruz de Ferro (Iron Cross) was spectacular, although cold. The forecast this morning was for 1degC, and a bit of wind chill didn't help

The Cruz de Ferro was impressive. It marks the highest point on the Camino Frances (1500m), and is iconic on the Camino. Traditionally peregrinos bring a rock from their home, and leave it at the Cruz. The idea is to symbolically leave their burdens (or anything else they need to leave) behind

I had brought a stone from Motutere, a lakeside camp where family and friends have been going every Easter for 30 years. I did the traditional thing and left my stone behind, not symbolising anything in particular, but the action did bring to mind how much I value family and friends

Yep, my stone is there somewhere

Then it was down down down all the way to Molinaseca, a drop of nearly 1000m

I did find the on-the-way village of El Acebo cute, with its narrow main street with overhanging balconies. It was definitely a suitable location for my morning coffee and food stop

Judging by the number of homes in good condition, the village appears to be thriving. Although there are exceptions to the rule...

Parts of the path down reminded me of NZ tracks, being narrow and muddy, but it was quite varied

Molinaseca was a pretty town, with its Romanesque bridge...

... and its bustling main street

I'm not sure what this is supposed to be...

Home for the night is Ponferrada

But before dinner, there is Castillo de los Templarios to visit, a seriously formidable castle. The castle was developed and extended over many centuries, but the Templars were there from the 12th to 14th century for various reasons, including protecting the peregrinos on their way to Santiago 

I understand that castles like this became effectively obsolete in the 16th century, because the increasingly sophisticated offensive weapons (cannons) made them too difficult to defend. Hence there were many castles of this era that were left to ruin. Including this one, requiring some serious restoration work

This character does not belong to an American organisation, but is a statue of the Nazareno Lambrión Chupacandiles. Apparently he announces the arrival of Holy Week by ringing a bell through the streets. The traditional religious garment is worn by penitents during Easter processions

And after dinner, there was a marching band and a parade, "MusiCamino"