The vast plains of the Po create endless fields of crops all irrigated with plentiful water supply. Whole fields submerged in it and by design.
Going is easy on flat land and a return to an Ostello in Pavia visited 13 years ago on my Via Francigena pilgrimage. Three cyclists join me to stay here. A father and son and the son's friend. Italians at end of their Day 1 from Torino to Roma. A memorable occassion and host Sister from the Convent Maria de Betlem signs us in. These are very special moments in anybody s journey whether beginning or ending.
The Ponte del Ticino is the image I sign off with after trailing Hannibal from Barcelona. Near here he defeated the Roman General Scipio who had scrambled here fast to block Hannibal's advance towards Roma. Hannibal was triumphant and went on to score further major victories against the Romans. But without actually completely defeating them. What a journey he and his army and elephants took on!
It feels like you might be near the end…? Your story has really brought a vision of Hannibal and the elephant herd standing up to and fighting the Romans.
ReplyDeleteRespect to him … and respect to you.
Love the moment of you and the Italians …and the convent lady booking you in 😃
Hope there is more …. 🙏🏽
My Italian cyclist friends have got to Siena today
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