Leon City historical old town and buildings

 

Catedral de Leon

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Without a doubt one of the most notable historical icons within the city of León is its magnificent cathedral. It is a French-style Gothic building built in the 13th century on the ruins of ancient baths of Roman origin.

Carved porches, colorful glass windows, glorious rosetons, one of the oldest choirs in Spain and sculptures of great beauty, such as the Virgin of Hope, are only a small part of the features of this impressive cathedral.

History of the Cathedral

Cathedral of León main porch of the Cathedral of León from sculpture. The Cathedral of Santa Maria went through several stages in its history before becoming the magnificent religious temple that can be seen today.

The origins of the Cathedral of León go back to the 10th century while during the Christian reconquest part of the ancient Roman thermals from second century served as the foundation to build new Royal Palace. The newly appointed King of Leo Ordoño II, who months earlier won a victory against the Arabs in the Battle of St. Stephen of Gormaz, decided to build, as a gesture of thanksgiving to God, the city's first basilica on his palace.