15th JUNE – To Estella on Roman Roads

27 Jun
Leaving Puente la Reina

Another hot day forecasted meant an early start by narrow dirt paths and roads,surrounded by hills with occasional vines,plentiful wild flowers and wheat fields; butterflies a plenty,too.

Cloudless scenery on our way.

It was a climb up to Cirauqui, spelled Zirauki in Basque which means “ nest of vipers”- a reference to the belief that serpents lurked in nearby crevices,or possibly hideouts for bandits preying on pilgrims. In the Codex Calixtinus,the 12 th century guide to the Camino there are warnings not to drink the water as it was toxic!

Today it’s a pleasant village of about 500 people.
With plenty to hold your interest.

For the next 3.3 KM we walked on a well preserved Roman Road.

The road is still being excavated in places .
The stones have been buffed by 2000 years of feet and hooves.
A rare Roman bridge.

We came across an olive grove that is being restored by volunteers. The name was well chosen.

With the Road bisecting it.

We were now heading towards Lorca, with ups and downs – little habitation – a wilderness almost.

JUNE and Tom take a break in the doorway of a church.

The last village before Estella is Villatuerta – the name means “ curved or sinuous village”.

Iglesia de la Asuncion- looks like a fortress
Brilliant blossom
A Huerta

Another useful Signboard showing tomorrow’s destination,Los Arcos

The Fuentes – water fountains- are always a welcome site and a chance to enjoy some shady respite from the sun.
Nearly there .
Entering Estella

Our accommodation for this evening is Casa Daniella,just off the appropriately named Plaza de Santiago – a triangular square with a fountain to boot.

At the end of a long,hot walk, what could be better?

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