Like many towns and cities in the UK, it has Roman origins, which are still clear to see today. The city originally started as a Roman spa, which then grew in to numerous baths (hence the city’s name), and temples.

Roman Baths, Bath, England, UK by Andrew Dunn

The city is still a cultural melting pot, with a plethora of museums, active baths and spas, theatres, pubs, bars and restaurants. There are also two universities located in the city which adds to the vibrant activity and nightlife of the area.

The varied and numerous attractions of Bath take visitors and tourists on a trip through the ages. Some of the more popular attractions include:

Roman Baths – You can still visit some of the original 2000 year old baths that the city was named after. The Roman Baths are Britain’s only hot spring, and thus are of great importance!

Thermae Bath Spa – This outdoor spa allows visitors to swim outdoors in naturally warm waters – this is a novel concept for such a cold country!

Prior Park Landscape Garden – This beautiful 18th century garden allows visitors to explore the luscious grounds and appreciate breath-taking views over the city.

The Botanical Gardens – This section of the 57 acre Royal Victoria Park is a must-see for flower lovers and budding botanists. Over 100 years old, this 9 acre garden features an incredibly impressive range of flowers and plants.

The Pump Room – The Pump Room (where warm bath water is drawn from the earth) has been the social hub of Bath for hundreds of years. It features the finest British cuisine and afternoon tea.

Tyntesfield – This maginificent Victorian country estate encapsulates historic aristocratic Britain. Located in Wraxall, the grounds overlook the stunning Yeo Valley.

Pubs – Bath is full of pubs, catering for all tastes and budgets. From high end gastro pubs, to quaint bars with log fires, there really is something for everyone.

Upper Town – This part of Bath is a shopper’s paradise; filled with quaint boutiques and independent stores, this one is for those who need a bit of retail therapy.

Theatre Royal – Built in 1805, this grand theatre is shows top quality shows year round, including opera, comedy, dance, and concerts; a perfect way to start a romantic evening.

Bath is an incredibly popular destination for both locals and travellers from further afield. There is so much to do that you are guaranteed not to be dissapointed if you visit this historic city.

If you’re planning to spend a long weekend in Bath, don’t forget to check the dates for the uk bank holidays 2013.

The post Great Activities to do in Bath, England, UK appeared first on Best of European Union.

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.