The valley of the Duero River flowing through the plains of Castille and Leon to the borders of Portugal, embodies the essence of Spain. The churches, cathedrals, monasteries, castles and palaces of the region are among the greatest in Spain. In this travel guide, White describes the Duero region's rich Romanesque, Muslim and Gothic legacies, each of which has developed its own uniquely Spanish characteristics. The author's historical journey sheds light on some of the more important and colourful figures who made up the history of this part of the world, and the legends that grew up around it.