Leon, an ancient kingdom of Spain, equivalent generally to the modern provinces of Leon, Palencia, Valladolid, Zamora, and Salamanca. The modern province has an area of 6167 sq. m. and a population of 390,000. - The capital, Leon (the Legio septima gemina of the Romans), is situated in a plain, 256 miles by rail NW. of Madrid, and has important linen manufactures. The beautiful cathedral (c. 1195-1512) contains the tombs of many sovereigns, saints, and martyrs. Pop. 17,500. - Leon is also the name of a part of Brittany.

Leon

Leon, a city of Mexico, 32 miles W. of Guanajuato, is a great industrial centre, manufactures saddlery, cottons, and woollens, and has a cathedral, convents, and theatres. Pop. 50,000.

Leon

Leon, a city of Nicaragua, 32 miles by rail (1882) SE. of its port, Corindo. Once the boast of Spanish America, founded at the head of Lake Managua in 1523, removed hither in 1610, and sacked by Dampier in 1685, it is now partly in ruins, and of its noble buildings only the cathedral and churches remain. Pop. 35,000.