I couldn't resist a visit to the free thermal pools below the town.
Yes, reader, I did go for a dip, but the waters were rather cooler than expected, so it was very brief. Some little frogs were croaking their desire for warmer waters, too. Some nice views though.
After coffee and a takeaway sandwich from Le Terme bar, a(nother) long uphill back along the Via, anticipating in reverse the first part of tomorrow's stage (it felt odd to be going in the wrong direction), and an afternoon exploring the truly delightful well-preserved town of S. Quirico, definitely worth a longer stop if you have time. The tourist office opposite the museum has a self-service stamp.
I love that bit of zoomorphic wrought iron. Reckon that's intended as a place to tether your donkey? Who's the wee fella in the niche above that Romanesque door? I love the weathered old lions standing guard through the centuries, sculpted by someone who'd never actually seen a lion.
ReplyDeleteWell now, that is San Quirico himself. There are two other doors, one attributed to Pisano. Read more here: https://m.visittuscany.com/en/attractions/the-collegiate-church-of-san-quirico-dorcia/
DeleteBut I also love the knot decoration on those columns and the fighting monsters below the saint.
Good to hear from you, Dan!
And, should San Quirico be of interest: https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cyricus_and_Julitta . Note that Newton St Cyres in Devon is named after him.
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