The so-called Hostal de San Marcos is one of the most extraordinary and monumental hotels in Europe. Its construction, next to the bridge that crosses the river Bernesga in the outskirts of Leon, began in the 16th century, as the headquarters of the Military Order of Santiago in the west of the peninsula. The work was funded by King Ferdinand. This beautiful hotel in León (Castile and Leon) is a living museum of majestic rooms, a cloister and spectacular chapel, spacious and elegant rooms, a library, and a superb restaurant that offers excellent traditional cuisine.