Video Stage 20: Mansilla de Las Mulas to Leon | Camino Frances with Jhonatan Barrios
Video Stage 20: Mansilla de Las Mulas to Leon | Camino de Santiago Frances with Jhonatan Barrios
Jhonatan Barrios shares his experience on Stage 20 of the Camino Frances, which runs from Mansilla de Las Mulas to the city of Leon, covering 19 kilometres. The full journey was filmed between 26 April and 26 May 2022.
In his account, Jhonatan describes how, despite the stage being somewhat tricky due to a few climbs, the walk turned out to be relatively short. In the end, Jhonatan had the chance to explore the old town of Leon and admire the Cathedral of Santa Maria de Regla, considered one of the most beautiful in Spain.
Stage 20: Mansilla de Las Mulas to Leon with Jhonatan Barrios
Jhonatan Barrios began his day at the Gaia hostel in Mansilla de Las Mulas, with a clear goal: reaching the city of Leon. On this stage of the Camino de Santiago Frances, the route is around 19 kilometres, relatively short compared to previous stages. With clear skies and a favourable forecast, Barrios prepares to explore a stretch full of history and beauty.
Leaving Mansilla de Las Mulas
At 7:20 a.m., Jhonatan Barrios sets off from Mansilla de Las Mulas. Although this time might seem late to many pilgrims, for him it is ideal. Careful planning has allowed him to book two hostels in Leon, giving him flexibility to choose whichever suits him best depending on location and comfort.
First Steps Towards Leon
The route begins by leaving Mansilla de Las Mulas, crossing an area that, although cool in the morning, soon warms up as the day goes on. Barrios, eager to see Leon and its imposing cathedral, heads towards the river Esla, a landmark along the way.
Passing Through Villamoros de Mansilla
Moving on, Jhonatan Barrios reaches the first village, Villamoros de Mansilla. Although the marked route appears to divert through the village, the arrows guiding pilgrims have faded in some places. This detour, which leads pilgrims to local restaurants or hostels, reconnects with the main road.
The Villarente Bridge
The next point of interest is the Villarente Bridge. This medieval bridge, restored in the 14th century after being damaged by flooding, still retains its historic character. Its history, standing on the old Roman Road, reflects the importance of infrastructure along the Jacobean route.
Crossing Arcahueja and La Del Campo
The route continues towards Arcahueja, where Barrios encounters a changing landscape. The climb up to La Del Campo is one of the last challenges before reaching Leon. As the sky clears, the walk becomes more pleasant, although the weather remains uncertain.
Arriving in the City of Leon
Crossing the River and Entering Leon
As Jhonatan Barrios approaches Leon, he crosses a modern bridge that reminds him of videos from his past. The excitement of reaching the city mixes with the fatigue built up along the way, but the urban skyline of Leon and its promising cathedral are a well-deserved reward.
Exploring Leon: History and Culture
Once in Leon, Jhonatan heads to the San Francisco de Asis hostel. Just a few blocks from the centre, the hostel offers a comfortable and convenient refuge. Leon, a city with more than 20 centuries of history, was founded in 29 BC and is known for its rich Roman and medieval heritage.
The Cathedral of Leon, one of the jewels of Gothic art in Spain, stands out for its impressive collection of stained-glass windows dating from the 13th to the 16th centuries. Although Barrios could not go inside, he enjoys the architecture from the outside and explores the old town, including Antonio Gaudi’s Casa Botines and the Palacio de los Guzmanes.
Stage 20 of the Camino de Santiago Frances
Stage 20 of the Camino de Santiago, from Mansilla de Las Mulas to Leon, is a blend of history, challenge and beauty. Jhonatan Barrios, with his experience and enthusiasm, has covered a stretch that not only brings him closer to his final destination at the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela in Santiago de Compostela, but also lets him immerse himself in the rich cultural heritage of Leon. As the day ends, he enjoys some local tapas and gets ready for the next stage of the pilgrimage (Video Stage 21: Leon to Astorga with Jhonatan Barrios).
