Part of the cruising experience is occasionally renting a car, getting off the boat, and visiting the countryside. If you are in Galacia at the top of the list is a pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostella, one of the three most visited sites in Christendom. For us, this was more about the journey through some of the interior, and people watching, than visiting a shrine, although the latter has its allure as well. We are hesitant to write this up as pure travelblogs are boring to us, but this one is hard to resist.

The Compostella church theoretically houses the body of Saint James, one of the original Apostles. We know this because eleven hundred years ago a farmer saw a light and heard sounds, which lead him to a grave, duly certified by the local bishop as that of said Apostle. Or, this could have been a physops to deflect attention from a competitive religious figure who was causing the bishop problems.

Either way, it was good marketing and put this small village on the map.

As churches go, Compostella is average in our opinion. OK, the triangle and eye are cool, but otherwise the structure is nothing out of the ordinary. Word has it that the design and construction were controlled from Rome, down to the smallest detail. The result is underwhelming. An allegory perhaps to central authority that tries to do too much?

But the people watching is wonderful.

There are the obviously pious, of course.

And those looking to take advantage. Having finished his libation this gentle soul went back to his begging.

And then those who are just enjoying the sights and smells.

There are a variety of street musicians, with whom we share an affiliation. Our very own second born began her musical career playing on the streets of Spain.

There is art on display everywhere.

With the dominant theme being swordplay.

There are lovers,

wonderful of birds,

and hundreds of cafes where you can quench your thirst and debate the merits of various religions.

Now this pilgrim has his act together.

Perhaps the best commentary on the pilgramage business, the gift shop at the exit from the church of Compostella, doing a brisk business too. We were sorely tempted by the umbrella.

For a high res slide show with lots more images click here.