About Castilla y Leon

Castilla y Leon is one of the seventeen autonomous communities of Spain. It was the result of the unification between Old Castile and León in 1983. The region is one of the largest in Spain, covering approximately one-fifth of its total area. The region is divided into the following nine provinces which boast the largest number of medieval castles in the world: Avila, Burgos, Leon, Palencia, Salamanca, Segovia, Soria, Valladolid and Zamora. Some of the most impressive Gothic cathedrals in Europe and historic cities, which could be compared to living museums are found in Castilla y Leon. Provinces such as Segovia, Salamanca and Avila have been given World Heritage Status as well as the Santiago Way, which is the famous pilgrims’ trail which traverses Castilla y Leon en route to the Galician capital of Santiago de Compsotela. Visit Segovia with its breathtaking Roman aqueduct and the Moorish Alcazar built between the 12th and 13th centuries which later became the symbol for Walt Disney. Travel to Salamanca, home of Spain’s oldest university founded in 1218 or journey to Avila, the birthplace of Saint Teresa, which is encircled by 11th century walls. The region of Castilla y Leon is one that shouldn’t be missed. Keeping with Spanish tradition, the region boasts exquisite cuisine as well as wine production areas that span out from the Duero River. With plentiful food and wine festivals, historic and cultural celebrations as well as religious festivities, Castilla y Leon has become far more than a rural location, evolving into a crossroads of cultures.