Day 18: Puente Villarente to León

May I just say that I love León? The old city is so beautiful. Arrived in the city before noon after a short, 7-mile walk from Puente Villarente and had most of the day to wander.

Found a wonderful albergue (Palacio Real) not far from the cathedral.

Casa Botines, designed by Antoni Gaudí

Wandered around with Camino friends from South Korea and Germany and saw so many other familiar faces throughout the day, including folks I haven’t seen in over a week. (And yes, I am wearing socks with sandals. Fashion has fallen off the priority list for now.)

Toured the fabulous León Cathedral.

Built in the 13th century, the Gothic cathedral includes one of the largest collections of medieval stained glass in the world. So naturally I was in heaven.

We came back for mass in the evening.

And because one mass is never enough, we also went to a pilgrim mass at St. Isadore’s Basilica.

Built in the 10th century, the basilica is more understated than the cathedral but still lovely. We received a pilgrim’s blessing from the priests.

Then, because all that worshiping made me hungry, and because the city was lively with Sunday evening crowds, I found a focaccia shop and picked up a late dinner. Delightful day all around!