Jacobean pilgrimages attracted people and societies from all over Europe in the Middle Ages: also from “Distant Europe”: the so-called Scandinavian countries – Norway, Sweden, Denmark,Finland and Iceland – and above all, the English, Scottish, Irish and Flemish. All of them helped to establish what we are now walking along, the English Way.They came to Galicia by sea from their respective ports and arrived in Ferrol or A Coruna.
We were significantly reminded of this when , on our walk towards Hospital de Bruma (the hardest stage), desperately in need of a break and refreshment, we came upon the Meson – Museo, Xente no Camino.
Walking in hope, more than expectation, this amazing place was a Godsend on a stretch of the route totally lacking facilities, according to published guides. I had learnt of it from a Blog I had read, but as it was not “official” information ,did not want to mention it to my companions. We were given a warm welcome by the owner’s wife, who explained that the idea was that of her husband an archivist and Medieaval historian; she proudly showed us his book, from which all the frescoes decorating the place, were taken.
It is easy to take advantage of an obvious need for a stopping place for Pilgrims and locals alike, but to accomplish it in such a sympathetic and unique way, is beyond meritorious; a blessing and a revelation.
Chatting to some of the locals there; one of whom had worked in London as a chauffeur for 19 years, before selling up and returning to his beloved Galicia.
We were tempted to prolong our stay at this wonderful oasis, but we had some kilometres to kill before our destination, that evening; we all agreed that it would remain in the memory for a long time.
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