Tuesday, June 21, 2022

21 Rest Day in León - 0 miles

 Yo no soy un león.

When I started to learn a little bit of Spanish, the app I was using had me learn this phrase. I don’t really know why. It’s not all that useful. But, it is a true statement. “I am not a lion!”


However, the city we rested in is a lion…at least that’s wjat its name means. (Although, a guidebook says the name comes from the Latin for “legion” referring to the Roman army that settled in the are around 29 BC.) You can see a few lions hanging around, though. 





The first highlight of León is definitely its cathedral dedicated to Mary. Built in a Gothic style and influenced by similar structures in France, it is quite beautiful. The stained glass windows are magnificent, and it is filled with much artwork and statues. The pictures won’t do it justice, but will give you a taste. 























The second highlight was just walking around the city. (We also found some gelato.)









Today begins a 10 day city festival honoring St. Peter and St. Paul. We were able to catch a traditional procession as it started through the city. 




[click the picture above for a short video of the procession]

The final highlight was the food, especially the toppas. The neighborhood in which we were staying was known for its tapas bars and so we indulged a little bit. Here’s a sampling.


Chorizo (sausage) in a wine sauce

Mushroom and ham croquettes 

Potato chips with garlic aioli

Focaccia with salami, arugula and sun-dried tomatoes 

Cheese and bread


Our Camino friend Richard from Nottingham joined us for dinner one night. 



Buen Camino!


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