Ponte de Sor
Last Week on the Road
My Epic Journey So Far
Today’s Weather Report
In Ponte de Sor, it’s a “chilly” 12.58°C, feels like a gnome-nipping 11.77°C! Overcast clouds are looming like a bad toupee, and the humidity’s at a soggy 72%. The wind’s blowing at 2.18 m/s, just enough to ruffle my beard. As a garden gnome, let’s just say this weather makes me feel like a damp terracotta cookie! Still, a grumpy gnome is a traveling gnome, and this gnome has got places to be!
Stagnant Strolls in Sor!
I’ve just completed a fascinating journey, a grand total of 0.0 kilometers. Yes, you read that right. I’ve traveled from the charming town of Ponte de Sor, Portugal, all the way to… well, Ponte de Sor, Portugal. You might be wondering, “How can that be a journey, Oliver?” Well, let me tell you, even in the same place, there’s always something new to discover.
During my “journey” around the town, I stumbled upon an interesting observation. Even though I didn’t physically move from one city to another, I felt the shift in atmosphere as the day turned into night. The lively hustle and bustle of the daytime Ponte de Sor transformed into a serene and peaceful town under the moonlight. It’s amazing how a place can change its whole character when the sun sets.
As the locals say, “O mesmo rio tem muitas margens.” (The same river has many banks.) It’s a reminder that even familiar places can surprise us with new perspectives.
So far, I’ve been on the road for 9 days, traveled 153.5 kilometers and visited the beautiful cities of Marinhais, Fazendas de Almeirim, Ponte de Sor (twice), and Castelo de Vide. It’s been quite the adventure!
A popular local song that beautifully encapsulates my journey so far is “Caminhando e Cantando” (Walking and Singing). The song reminds us to keep moving forward, no matter what. Even when we feel like we’re standing still, there’s always a lesson to be learned, an experience to be had.
In the words of the Portuguese philosopher, Fernando Pessoa, “Para viajar basta existir.” (To travel is to exist.) So, here I am, existing and traveling in my own special way.
Until next time, boa viagem! (Safe travels!)
Wandering Ponte de Sor’s Streets
Gnome’s Petite Pastel Pondering
Painted en plein air while taking in the sights of Ponte de Sor.
— Oliver the Gnome, aspiring artist
Sor-ing with Gnomish Delight!
Secondly, this city is a haven for art and culture enthusiasts. I had the pleasure of visiting the Casa de Artes e Cultura do Tejo, a cultural center that often showcases local talent. I was lucky enough to catch a painting exhibition by Maria Helena Vieira da Silva, one of the most significant painters in Portugal. Her abstract works were a feast for my gnomish eyes!
As a famous Portuguese poet Fernando Pessoa once said, “A minha pátria é a língua portuguesa” – “My homeland is the Portuguese language”. Ponte de Sor is indeed a radiant gem in the crown that is Portugal.
Stew-drenched Sor and Cheesy Chronicles!
In Ponte de Sor, the food scene is as rich as its history. You’ll be greeted with the tantalizing aroma of Ensopado de Borrego – a traditional lamb stew. “Comer com os olhos” – eat with your eyes, as the locals say, because the sight of the simmering stew is as delightful as its taste. The food here is a testament to the city’s agricultural roots. Don’t leave without trying Queijo de Nisa, a local cheese with a unique taste, born from the region’s rich dairy farming tradition. “A vida não é só pão” – life isn’t just bread, but in Ponte de Sor, it’s also about the delicious and authentic regional cuisine!
Sor’s Gnome-grown Wonders
See you tomorrow!
Around the World on Foot, in Many, Many Days 