Spain/Castilla y Leon: Burgos Cathedral (outside)
Just when I recovered from the magnificent Leon Cathedral, the nest stop in Burgos and the cathedral here (arguably the most beautiful in Spain) totally blew me away. Burgos became the capital of Castilla-Leon in 10th century and remained as such for the next 500 years. Thus, the cathedral here was built as a true masterpiece and jewel of the Spanish Gothic architecture. Built of snow white marble, the cathedral is adorned with thousands of sculptural and gargoyle details, as well as dozen spires on the top. Puerta del Sarmental facade has the cathedral’s most elaborate sculptures, depicting figures of the apostles and priests. Not to be missed – the 14th century Arco de Santa María Town Gate just outside the square with the cathedral.