Plenty Of Holiday Choices Around Castilla & Leon
Castilla and Leon are great places to visit if you love history and rich architecture. This region has been deeply impacted by the various occupations that give it the richness and beauty of history and architecture in the forms of castles, monasteries, cathedrals, fortified towns and statues. This region includes cities like Avila, Leon, Burgos, Segovia, Salamanca, Zamora and Valladolid.
Being the biggest region in Spain, Castilla and Leon is located close to Madrid, Aragon, Portugal and Costa Verdel. Castilla and Leon comprises 9 provinces, which are Avila, Leon, Burgos, Palencia, Soria, Segovia, Salamanca, Zamora and Valladolid. It is easily reached via Madrid’s international airport and by using the motorway.
Region’s Attractions
There are many historical attractions for tourists to Castilla and Leon; the many historical buildings which have been preserved in excellent condition make this a good stop for any history fan. These historical buildings with impressive architecture have been left by the Romans, Moors and Celts during their occupation. Castilla is famed for its numerous castles that exist in almost every nook and corner.
Avila
Avila is really impressive with its complete medieval walls and befits its status as Spain’s tallest provincial capital. It has 88 towers with 9 gateways with walls that stretch for 2 kilometers. The walls were built after the Christian Re-conquest recaptured the city from the Moors.
Burgos
The best attraction in Burgos is its Gothic cathedral which is acclaimed as Spain’s third largest, after Seville and Toledo. It was built in 1221 but its construction took more than 300 years and had some of Europe’s best architects involved. This city exhibits much fine Gothic architecture. It is a major Pilgrimage stopover to Santiago de Compostela where Saint James’ body was found in 813.
Leon
Leon offers a good mix of the old and the new, making it a very relaxing cosmopolitan resort. Its 13th century Gothic cathedral is Europe’s finest in architecture with 700 outstanding stained glass pieces with some odd matches of towers.
Salamanca
Salamanca is more renowned for its academia which had its University set up in the 13th century, making it Spain’s oldest. This city is bombarded by students filling its bars and restaurants all night long. Salamanca is best enjoyed on foot, starting from the 18th century town plaza.
Segovia
The two major attractions in Segovia have to be the Roman Aqueduct that is 2 tiered and the Alcazar which is the city’s fairytale castle for its royalty. Its 152 steps may be a challenge but the splendid view at the top is worth every step.
Valladolid
Valladolid holds a lot of history and culture as Castilla and Leon’s capital with its numerous churches, cathedrals, museums and sculptures.
Zamora
The greatest attraction is the 12th century cathedral with its Gothic architecture and an impressive curved stone roof of layered tiles modeled after the one in Istanbul. Romanesque churches also line its streets and bars and restaurants abound to allow customers a sip as they admire the beautiful building facades.