These 2 phases are usually combined with the stop in Radicofani instead of Ponte Riga but we decided to break in Gallina so we could approach Radicofani in the morning rather than at the end of the day. Reaching Radicofani (with the accent on the “fa” like former Italian PM Fanfani) entails a brutal 3000 ft climb in 4 km , something devoutly to be avoided in 96 degrees.
We reached Radicofani, had a delish lunch and then stretched out and napped on park benches in a large shaded park with spectacular views of the Val D’Orcia and sweet breezes. It was a good day.
We passed a single digit, 8th or 9th century Romanesque church dedicated to St Blaise a doctor who was martyred in the 4th century. He was a physician who refused to renounce his Christian beliefs so the Romans first peeled his skin with metals combs used to comb wool. When he didn’t die he was decapitated. Cause of death unknown. He is the patron saint of wool combers and doctors.
Walking the Via Francigena 
Hydrate!! Am are you know all about this. It’s 95 degrees here…you are so close!
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It was an ungodly 96 degrees at 4 pm. We walked in the evening util 8 om which was a novelty but much cooler. We will see you end of July!
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And St Blaise is the saint of sore throats. Which is why you can get your throat blessed with two (unlit) candles on my birthday, Feb 3 … also known as St Blaise Feast Day. I think some pious person brought him two candles when he was thrown is a dungeon or similar. Love St Blaise!
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St Blaise is portrayed with 2 candles, didn’t realize its origin. Feb 3 is going to be so much fun!
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