Things To Do in Leon, Spain
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Leon, Spain Attractions
The Cathedral is the main reason why most people visit Leon, and it doesn't disappoint. It has, arguably, the most rapturously beautiful stained glass windows in the world. Read more about its history, and pioneering architecture here.
- Cathedral
Catedral de León (Santa María de Regla)
This is why almost everyone visits León—to see the sun shine through the most dramatic stained glass windows in Spain. There are 125 in all (plus 57 oculi), dating from the 13th century. They are so heavy that the roof of the cathedral is held up not by the walls, but by flying… - Museum
MUSAC (Museo de Arte Contemporáneo de Castilla y León)
We seriously doubt that the city of León will ever rival, say, Berlin for international hipness, but even León deserves a taste of the avant-garde, which this museum supplies in spades. From the exterior, its panels of stained glass evoke a box of Crayola crayons or a rack of paint… - Religious Site
Real Colegiata de San Isidoro
The Leónese boast that “León had 24 kings before Castilla even had laws.” Eleven of them (along with 14 queens and many other nobles) are entombed here in the 12th-century burial vault, a marvelously spooky Romanesque room with fanciful ceiling frescoes of biblical scenes and court…
Leon, Spain Shopping
Something about the city's architecture encourages the acquisition of old-time handicrafts made from time-honored materials like terra cotta, stone, copper, wrought iron, and leather. The Plaza de la Catedral and the streets that radiate from it are particularly rich in battered, overcrowded kiosks with this type of artifact, and part of the fun of a trip within the city's historic core involves acquiring several pieces. For a more up-to-date roster of shopping options, consider a quick march through the vast stacks within León's biggest department store, El Corte Inglés, Fray Luis de León 21 (tel. 98-726-31-00; www.elcorteingles.es). Inside, look for men's and women's clothing, books, gift items, and hints of the high-fashion priorities of cities as far away as Barcelona and Madrid.
Leon, Spain Nightlife
Few other cities in Spain evoke the mystery of the Middle Ages like León. To best appreciate the old-fashioned eloquence of the city, wander after dark around the Plaza Mayor, the edges of which are peppered with simple cafes and bars. None is particularly distinct from its neighbor, but overall the effect is rich, evocative, and wonderfully conducive to conversation and romance. One of the best places for drinks is León Antiguo Copas, Plaza del Cid, 16 (tel. 630-074-766), which is open Monday to Wednesday 8pm‒midnight and Thursday to Saturday 7pm‒4am.
