Beautiful train ride through the very steep and winding hills. The Monks made this place their home in 8th century. How they scaled the mountain and made the created this sanctuary is mind boggling. But, like Buddhist monks and others did the same thing all over the world.
Modern (19th century) art form of the statue of Saint francis. He looks at you, where ever you go. The Monastery has been added on for all these years. Today it is a major pilgrimage ( money making) full of believers and non believers alike. It is a very pretty natural setting with lots of hiking options as well as basilicas and gift shops.
Had to climb the mountain because it was there. I know I will be sore tonight. It is very steep but beautiful climb. There were bare foot prints in the stone, I wondered how they got there?
The version of Mary, appeared to the boys herding their sheep in the mountains. This is the only dark colored Mary I have seen.
On the way back we stopped at the sea side resort of Stiges, known for it's wine and cocktail making secret recopies. The sea and the sea side are beautiful and so are the old winding streets ( you probably are tired of hearing that, so no more...) One interesting observation: We got there at 4pm and al lthe shops were closed and not a single soul in the town. At 5 pm, like a movie set, the streets were filled with people , all shops were open and kids were running around...We are creatures of programming and one has to wonder if there is a master programer ( or programmers) have fun in some parallel universe.
Had too much Sun and fun. Good night for now...
No comments:
Post a Comment