10~11. Discovering Santiago de Compostela: Day 10~11(La Grajera, Santa Domingo

Small Goals, Big Victories

 

The weather was gloomy, but it was perfect for a walk! Let's focus on the positive.

 

Walking in the rain sounds like a good idea. Today's journey spans 30km. I've realized that instead of being afraid of long distances, it's better to take one step at a time. No matter how far or how challenging the path may seem, consistent progress leads to reaching our goals eventually.

 

Midway through our journey, we encountered two Koreans. They didn't appear particularly thrilled about meeting fellow Koreans along the way. Perhaps they were just shy? I was reminded of my heightened sensitivity.

Once we reached today's accomodation, my caretakers allowed the rain to pour down again. I'm grateful for their constant care and attention.

 

We visited a church along the route, and its atmosphere was truly reverent and devout. Experiencing religious beauty firsthand for the second consecutive day, I find myself contemplating embracing a religion. It's a common tendency for people to seek solace in faith during challenging times only, and I'm no exception. I don't think God will help them, so I'm considering the possibility of believing in religion.

Finding something to believe in and rely on feels like a pretty good choice.

 

During dinner, I found myself indifferent to everything. What takes precedence for me: asserting my opinion or avoiding friction with others? My stance remains indifferent. We had Chinese cuisine and was caught in the rain, accompanied by music and ice cream.

Now, I plan to unwind by reading a book and organizing my thoughts. (feat. a dress-off festival? and eccentric painting on women's bodies...)

 

I purchased a new pen at the Chinese market, although it wan't made by China. Suddenly, distances of 20km and 30km feel eqully manageable. Let's not dread what lies ahead in advance! Today, I was reminded of Ms. Kim's advice once more. She emphasized the significance of achieving small goals repeatedly on the path toward reaching the ultimate goal.

I see this pilgrimage in the same light. By setting achievable daily goals, like reaching a small town everyday, I'll eventually arrive at Santiago. Small victories... when they accumulate, they amount to something significant.

 

I also learned about the importance of creating a mind map. It's a method of exploring broad topics deeply and pinpointing key words that represent our interests or aspirations.

I believe there's much I can glean from her.

 

The yogurt was fantastic, and barbecue-flavored Cheetos are simply unbeatable.

Foreigners are just like us- they experience shyness too.

 

Lastly, happy birthday and congratulations on getting a finest job to my beloved sister. May we both achieve success and bring joy to our parents and grandmother. I'm immensely proud of you, dear sister.

 

- La Grajera and Santa Domingo -

 

 

For your information,

La Grajera is a natural park and recreational area located near Logroño, the capital city of La Rioja, in northern Spain. Here are some key points about La Grajera:

1. Location: La Grajera is situated just a few kilometers southeast of Logroño, making it easily accessible from the city center. It is nestled within the Ebro Valley, surrounded by rolling hills, vineyards, and forests.
2. Natural Park: La Grajera is designated as a natural park, offering visitors a peaceful retreat in nature. The park covers an area of approximately 72 hectares and features diverse landscapes, including woodlands, meadows, and wetlands. It is a haven for flora and fauna, with numerous species of plants, birds, and small mammals inhabiting the area.
3. Recreational Activities: La Grajera is a popular destination for outdoor activities and leisure pursuits. The park is equipped with amenities such as walking and cycling trails, picnic areas, and playgrounds, making it ideal for family outings, picnics, and recreational activities. Visitors can explore the park on foot or by bicycle, enjoying the tranquility of the natural surroundings.
4. Lake and Reservoir: One of the highlights of La Grajera is its artificial lake and reservoir, which provides a scenic backdrop for outdoor recreation. The lake is surrounded by lush vegetation and offers opportunities for fishing, birdwatching, and leisurely strolls along its shores. Boating and kayaking are also popular activities on the lake during the warmer months.
5. Educational and Interpretive Center: Within La Grajera, there is an educational and interpretive center that provides information about the park's natural environment, wildlife, and conservation efforts. Visitors can learn about the flora and fauna of La Grajera through interactive exhibits, displays, and guided tours organized by park rangers.
6. Wine Tourism: La Grajera is located in the heart of La Rioja wine country, making it an ideal starting point for wine tours and tastings in the region. Many of the nearby wineries offer guided tours and tastings, allowing visitors to sample the renowned Rioja wines and learn about the winemaking process.

Overall, La Grajera is a beautiful natural park and recreational area that offers visitors the opportunity to enjoy the outdoors, learn about the local environment, and relax in a tranquil setting. Whether exploring the walking trails, picnicking by the lake, or birdwatching in the wetlands, visitors to La Grajera can immerse themselves in the natural beauty of La Rioja.

 

 

Santo Domingo de la Calzada is a historic town located in the province of La Rioja, in northern Spain. It is situated along the Camino de Santiago (Way of St. James), a renowned pilgrimage route, and is famous for its rich cultural heritage and religious significance. Here are some key points about Santo Domingo de la Calzada:

1. History: Santo Domingo de la Calzada has a long and storied history dating back to the Middle Ages. It was founded in the 11th century by Saint Dominic of Calzada, a Spanish saint who dedicated his life to aiding pilgrims on the Camino de Santiago. The town grew around the monastery and hospital established by Saint Dominic to provide assistance and shelter to pilgrims traveling along the pilgrimage route.
2. Camino de Santiago: Santo Domingo de la Calzada is a significant stop along the Camino de Santiago, attracting pilgrims from around the world. The town's historic center is filled with medieval buildings, churches, and monuments that bear witness to its role as a waypoint for travelers on the pilgrimage route.
3. Cathedral of Santo Domingo: One of the most important landmarks in Santo Domingo de la Calzada is the Cathedral of Santo Domingo, dedicated to Saint Dominic of Calzada. The cathedral is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture, with an impressive facade, intricate stone carvings, and a majestic interior. It houses the tomb of Saint Dominic and other relics associated with the saint.
4. Miracle of the Rooster: Santo Domingo de la Calzada is famous for the Miracle of the Rooster, a legendary event that is commemorated in the cathedral. According to tradition, a pilgrim falsely accused of theft was hanged, but miraculously survived thanks to the intervention of Saint Dominic, who brought him back to life. As proof of the miracle, a roasted rooster supposedly crowed from the dinner table where it was being served. The event is depicted in the cathedral's artwork and is celebrated annually in the town.
5. Historic Quarter: Santo Domingo de la Calzada's historic quarter is a charming area with narrow cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and picturesque squares. The Plaza del Santo, located in front of the cathedral, is a popular gathering place for locals and visitors alike.
6. Cultural Events: Santo Domingo de la Calzada hosts various cultural events and festivals throughout the year that celebrate its heritage and traditions. One of the most famous events is the Santo Domingo Fair, held in May, which features music, dance, food, and entertainment for all ages.

Overall, Santo Domingo de la Calzada is a captivating destination with a rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant cultural scene. Whether exploring its historic streets, visiting its religious landmarks, or experiencing its festive atmosphere, visitors to Santo Domingo de la Calzada are sure to be enchanted by its charm and significance.