Castille and Leon
A mountainous region in central Spain, what it lacks in sunshine Castille $amp; Leon makes up for in spectacular scenery and picturesque towns. The region´s main town, Leon, boasts one of the country´s finest Gothic cathedrals, and the countryside is dotted with many fine castles and religious buildings. The town of Salamanca hosts Spain´s most prestigious university and Casa de Conchas (house of shells), an amazing building covered entirely in seashell designs.
Whilst in the region, one place you must see is Ciudad Rodrigo, a walled town dating from Roman times. The area is known for its 16th and 17th century town houses, built by the conquistadors, founded in the 12th century and designated a national monument. You can wander through the streets admiring the many churches and mansions. The major attraction of the city being the Cathedral, Santa Maria.
The region is the land communication hub of northern Spain. It is crossed by the International E-road E80. This is the main road connection between Portugal and the rest of Europe. The last years have seen a vast improvement in accessibility from the rest of Europe, mainly through the operations of low-cost airlines at the airport of Villanubla (Valladolid). There are three other airports in Castile and León: Virgen del Camino (León), Salamanca and Burgos. The main airport of the neighbouring region of Madrid (Barajas) are close as well, if not yet with a direct communication through public transportation.
