Tonight we stayed at the Monasterio de Zenarruza, a cozy respite after a day of hiking in rain. The Monasterio de Zenarruza was first built in the 10th century after an eagle scooped a skull from a nearby graveyard and dropped it on the present site of the monastery. It was newly renovated in the 14th century. Presently there are only five monks and one volunteer woman. They make wine and beer, and operate one of the buildings as a guest house. Our humble accommodations were in a bunk room in the basement next to the boiler rooom where we hung out close to dry. The washroom was outside and around to another door. They fed us pasta and baguette. Like the albergue in Irun, this albergue is a Donativo meaning pilgrims give the donation they can afford for the bed and meals. This was Easter Sunday and we were fortunate enough to sit in on 7 pm vespers.
Edgar is a friendly and funny 26 yr old from Bilbao, Spain, working on becoming a high school teacher. He is finishing a Masters in Business and Law. He and his sister Astrid are walking back to Bilbao from Irun for their Easter holiday before returning to school.
Astrid, 22 is also from Bilbao, Spain. She is a student working towards being a One on One Tutor with children. She has an infectious laugh.
Antonio Maria is one four monks at the monastery de Zenarruza. They operate an albergue, make beer and wine, and sell cheese made by nuns.
Liz is from the Isle of Skye, Scotland. She has walked many Caminos. This time she started at Finisterre and is walking the Norte back to France.