The historic center of Leon is easily walkable. Leon means lion in Spanish but Leon actually derived its name from "legio." It was Rome's seventh legion, which was founded in AD68 and stationed here.
Aside from the famous buildings, stop to enjoy the lesser known places. Near our hotel, we happened upon the Church of Santa Maria del Camino.
Lions guard the church.
From there, we headed to Plaza San Marcelo and followed the Rick Steves tour.
In Plaza San Marcelo, you'll find he old City Hall (Casa Consistorial)
Look for the lion emerging from a manhole nearby.
Next, find the small park at the north end of the square. Here, you'll see a relief map of Leon's development over time.
Cross the street to Casa de Botines and the Guzmanes Palace. This is the headquarters of the Provincial Government of Leon.
Then head to the roundabout, the Plaza de Santo Domingo.
Walk up Calle Ramon y Cajal to visit Plaza San Isidoro. From there, walk down Calle Cid to see the birthplace of Guzman el Bueno, the hero of the Reconquista and Leon's favorite son.
Continue further down the street to find a statue. I wasn't able to figure out the name of this statue but I liked it.
Leon is on the Camino de Santiago so you'll find seashells to guide the way.
2021 09 06
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