León Cathedral

León Cathedral is a place of worship built in the Gothic style in the city of León. The west facade displays three ornate portals, while the side walls feature slender buttresses and numerous narrow window openings.

Construction began in the early 13th century on the remains of Roman baths and an earlier church structure. Work continued across multiple generations, with French masters shaping the design of the vaults and windows.

Pilgrims traveling the Camino de Santiago stop here to rest during their journey along the northern route. The spaces serve both regular worship and the constant flow of travelers seeking a moment of stillness.

The main entrance is on the west facade, where visitors can get their bearings before stepping inside. Most of the floors are level, though some areas have worn steps that need careful attention.

The glass windows date from the 13th to 16th centuries and cover nearly the entire wall surface between the pillars. This design allows more light to enter than most other Gothic churches from that era.

Location: León

Inception: 1205

Architectural style: Gothic architecture

Length: 109 m

Width: 29 m

Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible

Part of: Way of Saint James in the province of León

Address: Plaza de la Regla

Opening Hours: Monday-Saturday 09:30-13:30; Sunday 09:30-11:30

Website: http://catedraldeleon.org

GPS coordinates: 42.59944,-5.56667

Latest update: January 19, 2026 08:59