15. Day 11 - Rest day in Leon

After a lazy start, we took our bikes down to the bike-shop to be serviced and then returned to the Monastery for a free tour of the complex. Our Spanish guide was very informative and we enjoyed seeing behind the scenes, including the monks' living quarters and the magnificent chapel. Much of the antique furniture has been donated.  We then headed down to the Cathedral but alas, it was closed until 4pm - so we will have to return then. Still can't get used to Spanish time with the siesta, then everything opening again until late in the evening. The Gothic Cathedral de Santa Maria de Leon is 13th century and was built on top of the original Romanesque Cathedral which was built on top of a palace ruin and erected by King Ordono 11 which was built on top of public baths from the Roman era. Leon dates from the 1st century when the Roman legion, Legio X Gemina established a military base here. Tonight we are booked into the Monastery for a banquet of typical Leon dishes - I'm feeling hungry just thinking about it!  Barry tried to book us in for 7 o'clock but they don't start serving until )