10/3 – another 11 mile day to Valença, the last city before we cross the border into Spain. Our days in Portugal are coming to an end, and I find myself wanting to stay longer. We’ve found our comfort level with the little we know of the language, and can communicate enough to meet our needs. We negotiate the cafes, markets, post office and residencials. We’re starting to understand commercials and the news on TV. Starting over with a new set of challenges in a new country will be both exciting and exhausting. It also means there is only one week left in our Caminho…
Lots more flowers to enjoy on another warm and sunny day:
Valenca is a fortress town, responsible for keeping the ancient Spaniards out, I guess. The high walls of the Fortazela still surround the city, with cannon on the bulwarks:
There is an ancient marker here, from the time of Claudius Tiberius Caesar, 47A.D.:
…and several old churches including an Iglesia Santa Maria from the 12th century that had some interesting wooden artwork and the blue tiles (azules) that we so identify with Portugal:
The town also had bus loads of tourists shopping for linens and souvenirs:
At the end of town is the view over the Rio Minho, with the bridge that we will walk over tomorrow to Spain. 
Farewell Portugal! We love you!
Taking Our Time 