The Arch of San Miguel stands in a field at the edge of the town of Sasamón.
It was the entry portico to a 15th Century church that once stood on this spot. A shame the church did not survive. However, the arch is there as a reminder. It’s actually a dramatic sight: the arch, the field beyond, the blou sky above. This was a place for quiet reflection on the march of time. Take a moment to stop and think. It’ll do wonders.
The Romans ranged far and wide across what is no Spain. Augusts camped out in what was the Celtiberian town of Segisamo (hence Sasamón) on his way to make war with the Cantabrians. The Romans were conquest crazy and didn’t let up until someone put a beating on them. As they did throughout the known world of their time, the Romans left all manner of artifacts behind, from aqueducts, to coins, to theatres, to mosaic floors. In the town of Sasamón, you’ll find some interpretations of their civilization such as the scene below.
There are authentic pieces mixed with newer versions. And here are the real coins of realm.
And a few more just for contrast.
That was real money, plunked down for goods and services when the Western Hemisphere was not yet known by Europeans. Roman ruins, gothic cathedrals, modern art, great food, just a few of the many reasons I enjoy visiting Spain.
Flying in the trusty Cessna 172 as I frequently do, I pass by Pottstown-Limerick Airport (now Heritage, or for pilots out there KPTW). Anyway, this airport is one of my regular checkpoints on my way cruising to another locale. It’s easy to find because of the huge cooling towers at the nearby power plant. Here’s a shot of the field.
The runway itself is in good condition with ample width for those challenged by the centerline. You have to be mindful of the medevac helicopter that comes and goes. He’s known to depart in a hurry, and rightly so. Always do you checklist.
Sasamón, Spain features a magnificent “little” cathedral that you would not expect in this location. The town is quite small but on the Road to Santiago and therefore a stopover for pilgrims both presently and in days gone by. I call this a “little” cathedral because it has all the features of larger examples. The correct name is Santa María la Real.
The scene above gives a sweeping introduction to both the town and the church. You see the fountain there and if you were able to turn around, you’d be looking at the ayuntamiento, or government house. The gateway and yard beyond beckons the traveler to the church in the background. The church went through several iterations as it grew or was remodeled. You can see remnants of the different styles as you amble about the grounds.
In the cloister, you’ll find examples of cut stone artistry, still standing centuries after it was put in place. Inside are tableaus like this one.
A dramatic altar piece…
…and in the choir loft a well-played organ.
…and a baptismal font with fine carvings, too…
In particular, note the sleeping dogs around the base. Then have a gander at the pulpit, also of carved stone.
Again, there must have been hundreds of masons and no shortage of master craftsman pounding hammers and chisels all day long to build structures like this. It wasn’t the only church in town either, there were three, two of which survive. While walking through this church, we were the only ones present. Having a site like this to yourself is another honor. Enjoy it and be respectful.
The Bent Page 
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