Leon, Spain

Leon, Spain

You are here

About Leon

About Leon

Why Visit Leon, Spain

The city with lion spirit, splendid Leon is one of the most ancient and atmospheric hubs in the country.

Leon appeared on the Spain map in the first century B.C. and owed its formation to the Roman legion which set up a base camp on the banks of the Bernesga River. Since then Leon has become a prosperous hub which still honors its background and traditions.

Nowadays, the city of Leon is a popular tourist destination, located on the world-famous pilgrimage route of Camino de Santiago (the Way of Saint James).

Despite the fact that the city repeatedly experienced raids and battles, the territory of Leon has preserved the stone walls which defended the city since Roman times. Luckily, the city also has several cathedrals which can enrich your Leon tour.

Thus, there's no chance not to fall in love with the iconic Cathedral, Santa Maria de Leon, which remotely reminds the facade of the legendary Notre Dame de Paris, and the medieval Basilica de San Isidoro, dating back to the 11th century.

If you love wandering around the winding streets of cozy old towns, we would advise visiting the Humedo Quarter during your Leon sightseeing. This area houses two beautiful squares, Plaza Mayor and Plaza de San Martin, as well as a number of beautiful historic mansions.

One of the most noticeable ones is the Renaissance Palace of Guzmanes, owned by the aristocratic family. In the very heart of town, there is another significant Leon attraction, Casa Botines. This house is one of three buildings that the renowned architect Antonio Gaudi built outside Catalonia. Casa Botines was built in 1892 as a commercial warehouse and residence for the Catalan businessman Juan Botin and its facades, designed in the Neo-Gothic style, is definitely worth being part of your Leon itinerary.

One more significant feature of Leon is its cuisine as the city is considered to be one of the culinary centers of the entire Castile and Leon region. It is famous for simply amazing dishes from legumes, as well as from different types of meat. Tasty sausages, delicious jamon, and traditional garlic soup are especially popular here.

Best Things to Do in Leon, Spain

  • Explore the beauty of the unmatched ancient treasures of Leon, including the iconic Santa Maria de Leon Cathedral and the medieval Basilica of San Isidoro
  • Traverse the Humedo Quarter and the squares of Plaza Mayor and Plaza de San Martin
  • Taste local Castile and Leon region treats like legumes
 
Best Tours to Leon
More About Leon