Leon - Burgos

With check-out not until noon, we had a few extra hours this morning to continue exploring the historic center of León. After breakfast, we visited the Museo Botines Gaudí and the Museum of Contemporary Art. While both were interesting, the exhibits were not quite what we had expected.

Our drive from León to Burgos along the A-60 and A-231 was very pleasant. The sun made frequent appearances through scattered clouds, and the landscape consisted largely of wide-open plains covered with agricultural fields stretching to the horizon in every direction.

Before leaving León, the receptionist kindly helped us make reservations at their sister hotel in Burgos. The hotel was easy to find, conveniently located, and within walking distance of the historic city center.

Burgos, with a population of approximately 180,000, was founded in 884 and played an important role throughout medieval Spanish history. The Camino de Santiago passes directly through the city, bringing a steady flow of pilgrims from around the world.

The city’s main attraction is the magnificent Cathedral of Santa María on Plaza Rey Fernando. Widely regarded as one of Spain’s finest Gothic cathedrals, it was the primary reason for our visit. After a quick tapas lunch, Kurt and I toured the cathedral while Ursula and Renata relaxed in a nearby park.

Construction of the cathedral began in 1221 and continued over the next two centuries. During that time, numerous architects, builders, and artists contributed to its development, resulting in a remarkable blend of Gothic architecture and artistic craftsmanship.

I can honestly say that it is the largest cathedral I have ever visited. The sheer scale of the columns, the soaring arches, the intricate sculptures, the gilded decorations, and the detailed wood carvings were all impressive. Every room, chapel, and corridor seemed to reveal another masterpiece. The attached photographs will do a far better job of illustrating its grandeur than my words can.

This evening, we plan to return to Plaza Rey Fernando for a drink at a vermouth bar recommended in our travel guide, followed by dinner at a nearby pizzeria. It should be a pleasant way to end another enjoyable day of exploring Spain.Læs mere