Stage 23: Astorga - Foncebadón

Astorga has been an important city since Roman times due to its location at an important crossroads.

It is located at the confluence of the Via Traiana from Bordeaux and the Via de la Plata from Merida, two major Roman roads. The city was one of the few places in Spain where Jews had the same rights as the local population and were integrated into all aspects of city life, even participating in night patrols. This lasted until 1492, when the Jews were expelled from Spain.

Astorga has a long tradition of helping pilgrims. In the past it had twenty-one hostels located here, second only to Burgos. Unlike other cities, Astorga gave shelter in its hostels to the homeless and destitute.

The cathedral and museum of Astorga that are preserved today were begun in 1471, although an earlier church existed on the site as early as 1069. The present church contains a fine 18th century altarpiece.

However, the most interesting thing about the church is the 14th century prison cell attached to the side of the building. This is where, according to local legend, prostitutes were imprisoned.

The route is easy to walk for the most part, with old asphalt roads that are rarely used.

During this stage we will find a lot of trees that go deep into the mountains of León. There are also many grassy fields where it is nice to stop for lunch and rest if you walk in the midday sun. The route climbs 250 meters, but at the end it seems like a lot more. The next two days can also be quite exhausting.

It is a longer hike than usual, but the first part is interesting for being in nature, and the second half is easy to walk. At all times of the year it will be cold, so it is worth taking out your fleece jacket when you start walking.

The views of the mountains are beautiful. The last village to be reached is Foncebadón, which was abandoned for many years, but due to the Camino, there are now some residents and four pilgrim hostels.