León
A wealth of art and historical monuments
With a population of 150,000 today, this welcoming city was once the capital of the ancient Kingdom of León, for many years the gateway to the north-west of the peninsula. For centuries it has been enriched by the influence of the Way of Saint James and today it boasts an extensive cultural, artistic and monumental heritage.
The most outstanding example is the spectacular Gothic cathedral, also known as “La Pulcra Leonina”. Its stained glass windows and central portico make it a compulsory stop for anyone visiting León. So too are the magnificent San Isidoro Basilica and the Panteón Real, with its spectacular murals, considered one of the high points of the Spanish Romanesque.
Other features that should not be missed
The city is fortunate to be home to Casa Botines, a nineteenth-century Modernist building by Gaudí. A few metres from the entrance you can see a statue of the Catalan architect sitting on a bench. Beside this beautiful building, which today is a bank, stands the Palacio de los Guzmanes and not far from there the former Convent of San Marcos. Since the twelfth century, as well as being a convent, it has served many purposes: prison, barracks, and today parador nacional de turismo. In front of the main building stands the Monument to the Pilgrim, a bronze figure depicting a pilgrim on the Way of Saint James resting on some steps.
A city with atmosphere
Both the historic centre of León and the business area contain numerous streets full of restaurants, bars, taverns and outdoor terraces to enjoy food and drink at any time of day. The Barrio Húmedo is a particularly interesting neighbourhood with very narrow streets leading to charming squares where local residents and tourists enjoy tapas and the region's wines, a perfect contrast to the majestic Plaza Mayor and busy shopping streets like Calle Ancha.
You shouldn't miss...
If you come to León for a few days' work or holiday there are many other places of interest to visit, including the Parque de los Reyes de España, Plaza del Grano beside the Iglesia del Mercado (where you can still see the original Medieval paving), Plaza de San Martín, the Casa Museo Sierra Pambey, the Contemporary Art Museum of Castilla y Leó, Plaza de Santo Domingo and the old city wall.
Stay in León with Silken Hotels
The four-star Silken Luis de León, located in the city's business area is only a few minutes' walk from the old quarter, the Barrio Húmedo and the city's most iconic landmarks. In our hotel you will find the comfort and services you need for a perfect stay, and if you look at our special offers section for hotels in León you can obtain discounts and other exclusive advantages when you stay with us. If you book through our official website, you will be guaranteed the best rates, you can take advantage of our free cancellation policy and you do not need to pay until you reach the hotel. We look forward to seeing you!
