Santa María de León Cathedral was built of golden sandstone, in the Gothic style in the 13th Century. Master Cathedral architect was Enrique. It was built in the place where originally (in the 2nd century BC) stood Roman Spa, which was about 800 years later converted into a palace.

León Cathedral was completed in the 16th century. Today it is a wonderful building and since 1844 it is Spanish National Monument.

View Santa María de León Cathedral – one of the most beautiful cathedrals in Europe Spain in a larger map

Right at the entrance of the León Cathedral there are three decorated portals. Inside the cathedral there are more than 250 magnificent stained glass windows and a large circular window. Stained glass windows occupy more than 1800 m2.

In León Cathedral you also find cathedral’s museum. You can see there La Virgen Blanca, which is a Gothic statue of the Virgin Mary. Then the treasury of the 16th century and the cloister decorated with frescoes by Nicolás Frances. Cathedral Museum is in the summer (July-September) open from Monday to Friday, from 9:30 to 14:00 and from 16:00 to 19:30. On Saturday it is open from 9:30 to 14:00 and from 16:00 to 19:00. Cathedral is closed on Sundays and public holidays.

But the museum is open all year round, however opening hours are changing, it is better to look at the official site of the León Cathedral. Basic admission fee is 4 €.

View Santa María de León Cathedral – one of the most beautiful cathedrals in Europe Spain in a larger map

The post Santa María de León Cathedral – one of the most beautiful cathedrals in Europe | Spain appeared first on Best of European Union.

Piazza di Ferrari, Genoa, Liguria, Italy by Hpschaefer

In the Roman Era, Genoa was one of the most powerful states in the Empire. Their power continued on for centuries and it is even said that the flag of England was adopted from Genoa back in 1190. They were considered to be a super power back in the 10th century. Their power would finally come to an end in 1381 when the Venetians conquered the city.

While the city went through countless busts in development, much of the more historically significant buildings were left standing and were well maintained over the centuries. In the old city center, you will find most of the city’s most notable monuments and structures. Here you will find the Piazza de Ferrari, the Via Garibaldi as well as Doge’s Palace. There is also the 16th century Musei di Strada Nuova and the 5th century St. Lorence Cathedral. The largest sea aquarium in Europe can be found in the old port area which has recently been converted into a shopping center.

Duomo di Genoa, Liguria, Italy by Idéfix

Along the edges of the Piazza de Ferrari, is where you will find the home of Christopher Columbus. While it is unclear as to whether or not Columbus was born in Genoa, what is known is that he spent most of his childhood in the city before becoming the navigator touted as having discovered America. There is also a monument nearby that has been dedicated to the world famous navigator.

The post Genova – beautiful port with lots of secrets, Italy appeared first on Best of European Union.

Due to Italian history the people have the right for Piran bilingualism. Therefore, in the streets you can often hear Italian language. If you want to enjoy a truly memorable experience, do not forget to climb the steep streets to the city walls, climb to one of the fortified towers and walk through the walls. The magnificent view, that you can see of the historic center of Piran and Adriatic Sea, will keep in your memory for a long time.

Also the most demanding visitors will be satisfied in Piran as they can enjoy enormous array of delicious restaurants, cafes and tavernas with excellent Slovenian and Italian food with the offer of great local wines. Piran immediately adjacent to the town of Portoroz, a popular fast-growing and probably the most famous Slovenian tourist destination, full of fun and enjoyment for probably every tourist.

Piran’s first settlement dates back to the 7th century. As was common in this area, also Piran was ruled by Venice, which dates from the 1283. The main source of income has been mining salt in the salt fields Sečovlje, Strunjan and Lucija.

A major attraction is the water park Laguna Bernadine, where you can try a variety of water activities and attractions, swimming pools with hot and cold water pools for children, jacuzzi, Finnish and Turkish saunas and a range of massages. Water park is open all year round.

View Piran – charming port city on the Adriatic shore of Slovenia in a larger map

The post Piran – charming port city on the Adriatic shore of Slovenia appeared first on Best of European Union.