Attractions and Sightseeing in Leon, Mexico

Leon Cathedral

The Cathedral is a majestic edifice from 1765 whose facade features an exquisite example of baroque art. This building is one of the most representative in the city for its religious value as well as the beautiful cultural content of its decoration. The temple is a well-structured synthesis of the religious manifestations of Leon, and although primarily dedicated to Our Lady of Light, patron saint of the city, it has four secondary chapels. The one dedicated to Saint Joseph stands out because of its eight domes and one central cupola through which natural sunlight passes during the day, giving it an emotive touch.
In 1885, the sacristy of the Cathedral began its conversion into a gallery of religious paintings, lodging a considerable quantity of the city's religious heritage. Since the end of 2003, this annex of the Cathedral has been known as the Sacred Art Museum.

Zona Peatonal

This picturesque place downtown is also known as the Zocalito. For those who like to stroll and would enjoy the folklore that this destination radiates, La Zona Peatonal is perfect. This pedestrian area is closed to automobile traffic and is surrounded by the main monuments and historic buildings of Leon, such as La Plaza Fundadores, the Cathedral, the Lions' Fountain, and the Main Square. In the latter, you can enjoy cozy afternoons while the movement of people gives the ambience a special touch, as band music harmonizes the atmosphere with typical songs of the region and the rest of the country.

Zooleon

For people who like to be in touch with nature and enrich their knowledge about the diversity of fauna from different regions of the world, at Leon's zoological park you will admire a vast assortment of animal species, from huge mammals such as polar bears and impressive elephants, to birds with majestic feathers and small monkeys. This zoo affords the animals superbly conditioned areas that recreate their natural habitat while allowing visitors to appreciate the animals well and get to know them better through interactive features. A special feature of this place is the nightly safari; this tour allows you to become better acquainted with animals, which due to their instinct and nature are considered nocturnal.

Explora Science Center

One of the most representative places and an integral component of the set of museums and interactive science centers in Mexico is, without a doubt, Explora in Leon. This place is very interesting for children and those who like to mix knowledge and fun. Explora features six pavilions with 275 exhibits, most of them interactive; also, in the courtyard area and surrounding park, there are another 24 exhibits. During your visit to this fascinating place, you will see one of the largest Imax screens in Latin America at the Leonardo Da Vinci Theater, which holds 320 people. This attractive place also has an energy-saving hall, called "Ponte las Pilas," a kids' workshop called "El Cabus de las Ideas," and at "Newton's Apple" coffee shop, you will surely find something delicious for lunch.

The Expiatory Temple

This is a beautiful temple with an imposing neo-gothic style where magnificent stained glass windows can be admired. Its construction started in 1920, and stopped only temporarily during the "cristera" war. The building now is only 80 percent of the original project. Not only have ecclesiastical authorities taken part in its erection, but also thousands of Leon citizens, with their characteristic fervent faith, have contributed stone for the laying of the foundation, walls and altars of this huge temple. Its construction has been supported by charity and crypt sales, which now are characteristic of the Expiatory Temple.