Spotted this character in town last night. Apparently he is Cigarrón, a ritual local character of noise and controlled chaos, rooted in pre‑Christian agrarian traditions meant to expel winter and renew the season. Hope he’s looking out for me today.
Setting off this morning there were clouds sitting on the surrounding hills. The first 10km were a steady uphill climb regaining all the altitude lost yesterday and into the clouds. This area sustained substantial damage from wildfires in resent years. Picture showing the remnants of a copse highlighted by a backdrop of clouds.
I must have been traveling from one valley into another and past the top the clouds cleared and the sun came out for the first time in a while.
Look who I found hiding on the hilltop. I love these landmark features, so quintessentially Spanish.
Look who I found hiding on the hilltop. I love these landmark features, so quintessentially Spanish.
My journey finished in the town of Xinzo de Limia. “Limia” is the small river that runs through the town before continuing down the valley into Portugal.
Xinzo de Limia, not to be outdone, has its own chaotic mythical character Pantalla who is the guardian of the Carnival, and runs through the streets with two swollen pig bladders in his hands making a huge noise.
Great photos, David. And the commentary too, of course. Mike
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