Located in the heart of León, Spain, Plaza San Isidoro is a historical and cultural gem that should be on every traveler’s list. The plaza gets its name from the Basilica de San Isidoro, an iconic Romanesque church that stands majestically at one end of the square. This article will take you through the rich history and attractions of this remarkable plaza.
A Brief History
The area around Plaza San Isidoro has been inhabited since Roman times when it was part of Legio VII Gemina’s camp. However, much of what we see today dates back to medieval times. The Basilica de San Isidoro itself was built in the 11th century over ruins of a Roman temple dedicated to Mercury.
In addition to being a place for religious worship, it also served as a royal pantheon for kings and queens during Leon’s Kingdom period. Today, it houses some precious artifacts including tombs with beautifully preserved frescoes dating back to pre-Romanesque times.
Basilica de San Isidoro
The centerpiece attraction at Plaza San Isidoro is undoubtedly the basilica itself. Its architecture represents several styles – Visigothic, Mozarabic and Romanesque – reflecting different periods in which additions were made or renovations took place.
Inside the basilica lies ‘The Royal Pantheon’, often referred to as “the Sistine Chapel” of Spanish Romanesque art due to its stunningly well-preserved murals depicting biblical scenes like Noah’s Ark and Daniel in Lion’s Den among others.
Museum & Library
Adjacent to Basilica de San Isidore is Museo e Archivo Catedralicio (Museum & Cathedral Archive). It holds valuable collections including liturgical objects, medieval manuscripts and one of the most important documents in Spanish history – ‘The Nodicia de Kesos’, which is considered to be the first written document containing traces of the Spanish language.
The library within this museum contains over 300 codices and thousands of parchments dating back to as early as 7th century. The collection includes a variety of subjects from theology and law to astronomy and medicine, providing an insightful look into knowledge preservation during Middle Ages.
Plaza San Isidoro Today
In modern times, Plaza San Isidoro serves not only as a historical site but also as a social hub for locals. It’s surrounded by charming cafes where you can enjoy traditional tapas while soaking up views of the basilica. During summer months, outdoor concerts are often held here adding vibrancy to its serene atmosphere.
Visiting Plaza San Isidoro
Plaza San Isidoro is open year-round with no entrance fee for the plaza itself while there’s a nominal charge for visiting Basilica de San Isidore and Museum & Cathedral Archive. English speaking guides are available on request at these attractions but it’s recommended that you book them in advance especially during peak tourist season.
To reach Plaza San Isidoro, it’s just a short walk from León city center or alternatively buses run regularly between various points in León making it easily accessible regardless where you’re staying in town.
Conclusion
A visit to Plaza San Isidoro offers an enriching experience combining history, culture and leisure all at once place. Whether you’re interested in architecture or religious art; whether you want to delve into ancient texts or simply relax sipping coffee amidst historic surroundings – there’s something here for everyone! So next time when planning your Spain trip, make sure to include Plaza San Isidoro in León on your itinerary.
Frequently asked questions
What is the significance of Plaza San Isidoro in León?
The Plaza San Isidoro holds a significant place in the history and culture of León, Spain. It’s home to the Basilica de San Isidoro, an iconic Romanesque church that dates back to the 11th century. This basilica houses royal tombs and one of Europe’s greatest collections of medieval art. The plaza also features a museum showcasing archaeological finds from different periods, which helps visitors understand more about Leon’s rich past.
Where is Plaza San Isidoro located?
Plaza San Isidoro is located in the heart of León, a city in northwestern Spain. Specifically, it can be found within the old town district known as “Barrio Húmedo”. Its exact address is Plaza Santo Martino, 4, 24003 León, Spain.
What are the operating hours for visiting Plaza San Isidoro?
The Basilica de San Isidoro generally opens its doors to visitors from Monday to Sunday between 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM during winter months (October – March). During summer months (April – September), it extends its opening hours until 7:00 PM. However, these timings may vary on public holidays or special occasions so it’s recommended that you check their official website before planning your visit.
What other attractions are near Plaza San Isidoro?
Apart from exploring Basilica de San Isidiro itself and its museum collection inside Royal Pantheon (Panteon Real), there are several other popular tourist spots nearby worth visiting such as Casa Botines (a building designed by Antoni Gaudí), Cathedral De Léon which showcases stunning gothic architecture, and the Museum of León which exhibits a range of archaeological and ethnographic collections. The Plaza Mayor, a bustling square with cafes and weekly markets is also within walking distance.
Can I take guided tours in Plaza San Isidoro?
Yes, guided tours are available at Plaza San Isidoro. These tours not only provide access to the basilica but also include detailed insights into its history and significance. They cover key areas like the Royal Pantheon, Library-Museum-Scriptorium, Chapter House (Sala Capitular), Tower (Torre del Gallo) etc., enhancing your overall experience by offering an in-depth understanding about this historical site’s architectural elements and cultural relevance.
