The Gathering Place: A Winter Pilgrimage Through Changing Times

Mary Colwell's Camino Francés pilgrimage in winter 2020 is a unique historical moment, combining political change, climate and biodiversity emergencies, and a global pandemic. She weaves experiences from her solo journey with stories from centuries of pilgrims, offering contemplation and a place for memories and experiences to gather.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 12 September 2024
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

Mary Colwell, an author, nature campaigner, and seasoned solo walker, embarked on a 500-mile pilgrimage along the Camino Francés in northern Spain during the winter of 2020. This route is typically traversed by thousands of people each year, but Mary had it almost entirely to herself at a unique historical juncture marked by significant political change, escalating climate and biodiversity emergencies, and a global pandemic. The modern world intersects with the Caminos' well-worn path, serving as a focal point for reflection and a repository for memories and experiences. In her captivating book, Mary skillfully weaves together her personal experiences from her solo winter pilgrimage with the stories of millions who have undertaken this journey throughout history. Her thoughtful and often humorous journey of the body and soul includes moments of profound spirituality, encounters with a demon slayer, bizarre occurrences, and enchanting tales, all accompanied by Mary's exquisite descriptions of the ever-present backdrop of nature in all its complexity and awe-inspiring wonder.

Weight: 208g
Dimension: 197 x 128 x 17 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781399400565