León

Written: April 4th, 2008  Print This Page  Email This Page

León is a city located within the autonomous community of Castile and León. Situated in the northwestern part of the country, the city has a lot to offer its visitors in terms of heritage and interesting attractions.

Sights & Activities

The Basilica of San Isidoro is a good starting point for exploring the rest of the city. The basilica stands on the site of a former Roman temple. It was built in the 10th century was originally dedicated to St. John the Baptist. It was rededicated to its present patron a century later. The basilica contains the relics and the remains of St. Isidoro. It also features a carved tympanum of the Puerta del Cordero. Another interesting highlight of the chapel is the funereal chapel, adorned with Romanesque art. The basilica also houses a museum with impressive collections of medieval art and priceless books, including a mozarabic bible. The basilica also holds the distinction of celebrating the wedding ceremony betweem El Cid and Jimena Gomez.

Another prominent religious structure in the city is the Cathedral of Santa Maria de Regla, which was completed in the 14th century. It is of Early Gothic style and features terraced windows that produce some unique light effects on the interiors. The cathedral houses the remains of San Froilán and is adorned with several beautiful works of art. The choir-stalls were created by Flemish artisans during the 15th to the 16th century. The cathedral’s west front is decorated with the presence of two towers. The structure also bears several beautiful stained glass windows. Adjoining the cathedral is its museum, which contains several valuable items including a Visigothic bible.

The Palacio de los Guzmanes is another interesting destination. It is situated on the northeastern edge of the Plazuela de San Marcelo and resembles an Italian palazzo in style.

The foremost Spanish architect Antonio Gaudi also designed a building right in the middle of the city. The Casa de los Botines is also located at the Plazuela de San Marcelo. This Neo-Gothic structure now houses a bank. Also located within the square is the small church of San Marcelo, which contains the saint’s remains. It also features corner towers and wrought iron balconies.

The Castile and León Museum of Contemporary Art is slowly gaining international recognition and has initiated collaborative transactions with other contemporary art museums from all over the world.

The Archaeological Museum of León contains several interesting artifacts, including an ivory figure of Jesus Christ, said to be made in the 11th century.

During Semana Santa or the Holy Week, the whole city comes alive with processions and other related events that bear religious themes.

Weather

León is one city that enjoys a generally Mediterranean climate. However, traces of continental and Atlantic weather influences are still felt in some parts of the city. Snow often occurs during winter in the city, especially those living in high altitude areas. Summer rarely gets hot, making it ideal for those who wish to explore some of its sights. Outdoor temperature slightly improves during spring, making it the ideal season for visitors to pack their bags and come to this beautiful city.