One place nestled in rural Spain combines art, history, gastronomy and wine exists. That place is Castile and Leon. A region home to nine cities waiting for you to discover this little piece of the Iberian Peninsula. Get your palate at the ready and set your eyes to stunned. You will need all your attention to enjoy this experience to the fullest.
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Ávila
Its walls, amongst the best preserved in the world, are its main calling card. These walls beside the Old City and the churches outside the walls have been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. A few places you have to visit include: the cathedral, Plaza del Mercado Grande and Plaza del Mercado Chico, the Castle of Don Álvaro Luna, declared a Historic Monument, the Convent of Santa Teresa and the Basilica of San Vicente. Round off your trip with a sweet touch, sampling some delicious “yemas” from Ávila.
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Burgos
Spain has one particular cathedral that is individually recognized as a World Heritage Site, and it is located in Burgos. The Gothic style of this impressive building is bound to surprise you. To enjoy magnificent views, take a walk up to the castle. It is also home to one of the most visited museums in the country: the Museum of Human Evolution (MEH). Burgos is also known for its fresh, healthy and natural cheese, as well as other gastronomic delights.
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Leon
Did you know that Gaudí left his mark on Leon more than a century years ago? Prepare yourself to witness Casa Botines, declared a Historic Monument. Even so, its monumental cathedral, a great representation of Spanish Gothic architecture, remains the city's main symbol. Close by is the Royal Collegiate Church of San Isidoro, one of the most important Romanesque buildings in Spain. But nothing gets better than the city's cured meats and sausages.
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Salamanca
To discover this city, simply take a walk through its historic quarter, starting with its monumental Plaza Mayor, and see for yourself why a large part of the city has been declared a World Heritage Site. Soak up the knowledge of its well-known university or marvel at the architecture of the different buildings, including La Clerecía.
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Segovia
This World Heritage City is renowned for its Roman Aqueduct built between the 1st and 2nd centuries. The city also has other essential monuments worth a visit, including: the Alcázar, the Church of the True Cross, its Plaza Mayor and the Monastery of Santa María del Parral.
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Soria
It is known for being the cradle of Romanesque art in Spain. You can visit the city in an afternoon, including the Church of Santo Domingo, although its surroundings are particularly impressive, such as the cathedral of El Burgo de Osma, declared a Historic and Artistic Site, or the Archaeological Site of Numancia. And make sure not to leave without tasting the city's star tapa: the torrezno.
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Valladolid
Any visit to this city with its medieval past must include a mandatory stop at the following sites: the Church of Santa María de la Antigua, the cathedral, the Colegio San Gregorio and the National Sculpture Museum. It is also known for its celebrations during Holy Week.
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Zamora
The province of Zamora is well known for its nature, but its capital hides places of a different kind that will surprise you. The first thing you should visit are the city's walls, followed by the castle. After that, you can enjoy views of the Duero River from the Piedra bridge. Craftwork is also very important, and a perfect opportunity to take home another good memory.
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