Guide to Leon, Spain, tourist guide to Leon, Castille, Leon information and guide, Visit Spain, hotels in Leon
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Places in Spain - Leon

 

Leon is one of the most historic regions of Old Castile. It is a fairly large province, bordered by Galicia and Asturias, as well as by Palencia and Zamora. Very few Celtic remains have been found here but there is evidence of Roman occupation. Other peoples have settled here including the Moors but it was the Knights Templar who built castles and fortifications here in the Middle Ages. Much of the region has escaped the tourist boom and remains wooded or mountainous, making it an ideal location for the trout fishing that attracts so many people each year.

The city of Leon has been very cosmopolitan, even since Roman times when it was known as Legio Septima due to the fact that the seventh legion was stationed here. The Moors moved in briefly but were driven out by the kings of Asturias who chose it as their new capital in AD913.

 

 
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Leon has a very important link by train with Madrid and other important cities and is linked by several major road routes. The old town of Leon is set back from the river, partly enclosed at one end by the remains of the medieval ramparts. Here you will find tranquil places to rest and a bustling market area and ample historic buildings to view.
   
One of Leon's glories is without doubt, the Cathedral, one of the finest in Europe and having been constructed from the 13th century for a period of 200 years to completion. Among its unusual features are its towers and steeples where no attempt was made to make them match. It has more than 250 remarkable stained glass windows including a large rose window. In total there is over 1800 square metres of glass. The cathedral museum is also worthy of a visit with its wide array of exhibits.
   
The Collegiate Church of San Isidoro houses an impressive collection of early manuscripts. An early Romanesque construction.

The Convento de San Marcos (picture below) is the former house of the Knights of Santiago. Although the origins date back to the 12th century, the facade dates from the 16th century. Today it is a luxury hotel whose interior has the appearance of a museum. The building has also served as a hospital and a prison.

The Old Town Hall was erected in the late 17th century and commands the Plaza Mayor.

 

The Palacio de los Guzmanes is a magnificent 16th century building with an impressive courtyard. It was once the home of the Guzman family, one of the wealthiest families in León. The building has four towers.

 

The Casa de Botines is an impressive piece by Gaudí with large turrets on each corner.

   
 

 

The Town Walls are of Roman and Medieval construction and are very impressive. The San Isidro Tower is of particular interest.

 
Festivities
Las Cabezadas: On the last Sunday in April in the cloister of San Isidoro, the town councillors and church authorities bow ceremoniously to each other as a celebration of the sharing of power between civil and church authorities.
San Juan y San Pedro: 21st-30th June. This is the major festival in León.
San Froilán y Las Cantaderas: 5th October, festivities around the Cathedral.
 
Contact Numbers
National Police 987 207 312 Emergency 091
Local Police 987 255 500 Emergency 092
Guardia Civil 987 221 100 Emergency 062
Hospital Virgen Blanca 987 237 400
Hospital General Princesa Sofia 987 237 400
Red Cross Ambulance 987 222 222
Fire Service 080
Tourist Office 987 237 082
Town Council 987 227 350
Post Office 987 876 081
Radio Taxi 987 261 415
Museum of León 987 245 061
 

 
     
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