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Astorga
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Pilgrimage crossroads
Astorga sits at a pivotal point on the Camino de Santiago, where the French Way meets the Northern Route. Travelers often linger to sample the town’s famed chocolate, a tradition dating back to the 19th‑century confectioners who catered to pilgrims. The town’s compact historic centre, with its blend of Romanesque and Gothic façades, offers a natural pause for reflection before the ascent to the nearby Mamales mountain passes.
A modernist interlude
Beyond its medieval core, Astorga is distinguished by the Gaudí‑inspired Episcopal Palace, an eclectic mix of Moorish arches and colourful ceramic tiles. Visitors who appreciate architectural dialogue will notice how the building’s undulating forms contrast with the surrounding stone streets, creating a visual conversation between 19th‑century ecclesiastical power and late‑19th‑century artistic rebellion.
Seasonal rhythms
The town’s calendar is marked by the Fiesta de San Juan in June, when the Plaza del Ayuntamiento becomes a stage for traditional folk dances and the ringing of the cathedral bells. Early autumn, after the harvest, brings a quieter ambience, allowing guests to explore the nearby Roman ruins and the Leonese countryside without the bustle of summer pilgrim traffic.