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Further on, the itinerary continues
through the province of Palencia and reaches Villalcázar
de Sirga, a town that once had two hospitals for pilgrims.
Here stands the church of Santa María la Blanca,
from the 13 C, which has three naves and a chapel dedicated
to the Apostle Santiago. It also contains an image of the
Virgin "Cantigas", to whom the King Alfonso X
"The Wise" dedicated some of his writings. Worthy
of note are also the Chevet, the Altarpiece and the Chapel
with sepulchres from the 12 C. A 17C palace has been converted
into a refuge for pilgrims.
Finally, the Route takes walkers to
the town where they will rest after today´s journey,
Carrión de los Condes. This important Medieval town
was the Court of many kings and queens, site of councils
and the birthplace of renowned figures such as the Marquis
of Santillana. The Abbey of Santa Clara, from the 13 C,
contains a Pietà created by Gregorio Fernández.
The Romanesque church of Santa María del Camino treasures
an image of Christ from the 15 C. The Monastery of Zoilo,
from the 16 C is a masterpiece of the Renaissance. Worthy
of note is also the beautiful Romanesque façade of
the temple of Santiago, destroyed by the French troops during
the Independence War.
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