Saturday, July 7, 2012

A Sweet-tooth for Astorga

We walked about 15km away from Villar, had lunch (ensalada mixta is the love of my life), and then took a bus to Astorga, another 15km away, so we could explore.

When we arrived, strange cannon noises inexplicably boomed.  We walked by the multi-colored cathedral, the clocktower where two figurines rang a bell on the hour, and ornate black metal gates. But the best part of Astorga so far: the sweets.

Apparently the city is known for its artisanal chocolate and homemade pastries.  We sampled (and adored) the orange chocolate, almond puff pastry,  mantecadas (a sweetbread), and hojaldres (a honey pastry similar to baklava).  We also devoured our favorite Spanish donuts, more cakey than at home, and this time covered in chocolate fondant.  How sweet it is to be a pilgrim in Astorga!

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