3 Best Sights in Castile–Leon and Castile–La Mancha, Spain

This hidden-gem museum uses the archaeological record to show what life was like in Astorga during Roman times, when the city was called Asturica Augusta. The most memorable part of the experience is the Ruta Romana, a walking tour of Roman archaeological remains (combined tickets can be bought at the museum). Descriptions are in Spanish only.

Opposite Astorga's cathedral is this fairy-tale neo-Gothic palace designed for a Catalan cleric by Gaudí in 1889. Though the humdrum interiors pale in comparison to the eye-popping exteriors, those interested in local ecclesiastical history shouldn't miss visiting the Museo de Los Caminos (Museum of the Way). Guided tours are worthwhile and cost an extra €3; be sure to call ahead to book an English-language tour.

The museum within this Gothic cathedral displays 10th- and 12th-century chests, religious silverware, and paintings and sculptures by Astorgans through the ages, but the real treasure is the cathedral itself. You'll be especially wowed by the chancel, which contains Spain's most elaborate Romanist (Late Renaissance) retable, and by the choir, sculpted from walnut wood in an exuberant Flemish style.