Lion King

The view from the doorway of our hostel.

Although technically the name for the city of Leon comes from "Legion", the lion is used as its symbol. Founded as a Roman military garrison in 29bc, it has been the capitol of the old kingdoms of Asturias and Leon.  Having been conquered by Visigoth, Moor, and finally Christian forces, it retains the style of every period. The old quarter is dominated by the 13c Gothic Cathedral with its 125 stained glass windows which bring in a great deal more light than normally in other Cathedrals. It is said to be the "gayest church in Spain"( you can add your own commentary).Because of the use of so many windows, the Cathedral has suffered numerous structural failures and one of the altars that had been especially designed was reconstructed so as to not cover any of the stained glass.

The altar and stained glass windows.