Hospital to Astorga

I left on the 9.33 bus. The 20 minute journey was a really nice drive into Astorga, with clear views of the mountain range ahead which still had snow on the tops. Taking the bus meant more time for sightseeing in Astorga and avoided the steep climb into the city which I remember from before. It was a day of bright sunshine and brilliant blue sky, ideal for taking photos.

First on the agenda was not a Church, but the Chocolate Museum. This had interesting displays of the history of chocolate production before it became mechanised and ended with a sampling of 3 different types. Should I buy some for the journey, I wondered. No: it would only melt in the sun as the weather was hotting up.

My hotel (Spa Ciudad de Astorga) let me check in early and I had, in fact, arrived before my backpack. I have my swimming costume with me, but the spa is a bit pricey at €14.

Cathedral east end.

Bishops Palace designed by Gaudi.

Chocolate Museum.

Chocolate for tasting and purchase.

In the afternoon, a visit to Gaudi’s neo-classical Bishop’s Palace was a must (and it’s just across the road). It’s not as flamboyant as his Barcelona creations, but there is stained glass in every single window on 3 floors, so it’s impossible to see out. In the basement are Roman remains and stone inscriptions. It was known then as Asturica Augusta and founded in 14 BC.

Chapel inside the Bishop’s Palace, with its neoclassical arches and stained glass.