LEON (the ancient Legio, so called from the Legio septima Gemina having been stationed here), a city of Spain, capital of the above province, situate in the angle formed by the junction of the Torio and Bernesga, 176 miles N.W. of Madrid, in N. Lat. 42. 30.; W. Long. 5. 35. The town is surrounded by old decayed walls, and though containing many magnificent buildings, presents everywhere the appearance of ruin and decay. The streets are narrow and dirty, conveying the idea of great poverty. Some of the edifices are exceedingly handsome. The cathedral, founded about 1199, was formerly one of the most graceful and elegant buildings in the world. It is built in the pointed Gothic style, of a warm cream-coloured stone, and is remarkable for its lightness and proportion. The grand west entrance from the Plaza Mayor has three portals, richly ornamented with elaborate sculpture, a noble rose window, surmounted by a pinnacle, and a tower on each side. The south front has also a plaza and three arched doorways, richly sculptured. The north facade has been deformed by balustrades and candelabra; the east is circular and Gothic, with flying buttresses and pinnacles. The interior is also remarkable for its lightness and simplicity, but has been greatly deteriorated by modern attempts at improvement. It contains much carved work, and many monuments and relics of interest. Most notable among the other buildings are,—the church of San Isidoro, a huge structure, also Gothic, founded in 1063; the convent of San Marcos de Leon, once the property of the order of Santiago; the town-house, built in 1585; the episcopal palace; public library, contained in an old nunnery; and a palace called La Casa de los Guzmanes. There are many institutions for educational and benevolent purposes, including a diocesan seminary; the gymnasium; primary, normal, and other schools; and four hospitals. Weaving linens, knitting caps and stockings, and making gloves, are the principal occupations of the people. What trade there is is mainly owing to two weekly markets and three annual fairs, which last for several days.
Leon was founded prior to the reign of the Emperor Galba, and was taken by Leovigildo in A.D. 586. On being recovered from the Moors, who held it for some time, it became for three centuries the residence of the kings of Leon. Under Don Pedro it lost this honour, by the transference of the court to Seville. It was sacked by Soult in December 1808. Remains of the ancient Roman wall are still extant. Pop. about 5500.