Castilla y León - a short introduction   

Castilla y León (94.000 km2), is the biggest region in the European Union. There you will find mountains and plains, plateaus and woods whcih make it a beautiful land of contrasts. The area of Palencia and Valladolid is lovingly called 'a land of sea'. That is because, depending on the month you visit, the gentle movement of the growing barley and wheat gives you the impression of being surrounded by waves amidst a sea.

Born from the union of two of the most ancient kingdoms in the Iberian Peninsula, Castilla y León has its own culture and peculiar identity. Its interesting past which is full of traditions and legends has left thousands of traces in every corner and village.

The glorious history of Castilla y León is evident in its many beautiful monumental remains such as San Martin De Fromista in Palencia, Basilica of San Isidore in León and the unique cloister of Santo Domingo de Silos in Burgos which are examples from the Roman era. Many more can be found along the highway of Christian devotion (Path of Santiago de Compostela). 

The cathedral of Burgos is a perfect example of the Renaissance era. Examples of the Gothic era are the San Gregoria School in Valladolid or the Carthusian Monastery of Miraflores in Burgos. Evidence of the Castilian architecture with Arabic influences are the monastery of Santa Clara in Tordesillas and the Casa de las Conchas in Salamanca.

And there is more: three cities in Castilla y León - Avila, Salamanca and Segovia - have received the UNESCO World Heritage Site status and three quarters of the Path of Santiago and most of the ancient silver route (Via de la Plata) pass through the region.

Sports enthusiasts don't fall short either: Castilla y León offers skiing in winter whilst trekking, walking, cycling, golf, horse riding, rafting, canoing, fishing and mountain biking can be practiced throughout the year.

We hope that you will (re-)visit Castilla y León soon!