During the usual short but painful climb to get out of the town we met a large group of visually impaired persons on foot together with their dogs and other help. They are sponsored by Once a Spanish lottery with a history of helping persons with disabilities. Some might remember the earlier Spanish cycling team with the same name. In the past weeks our respect for the walkers has grown by the day. 

Later we pass the chapel of San Roque. In Villafranca del Bierzo we come upon the Gate of forgiveness. Pelgims who were too sick to make it to Compostella could receive the same absolution by entering this church through the gate. 

There is only one mountain pass from Castilia to Galicia. Earlier the Pelgrims had to share the route with truck and other vehicles. Presently a major highway has been added, helping the pelgrims but not exactly improving the mountain view.