Monuments of Oviedo and the Kingdom of the Asturias

A Traveler’s Guide to the Monuments of Oviedo

Oviedo, the vibrant capital of the Principality of Asturias, is a city steeped in history and adorned with stunning architectural marvels. As the historical heart of the Asturias region, Oviedo boasts an impressive collection of pre-Romanesque monuments, a testament to its role in the early unification of Spain. This guide will delve into some of the most captivating sights that capture the essence of this ancient city’s rich past and vibrant present, offering insights into what makes each one unique.

Historical Context: The Birthplace of Asturias

To truly appreciate Oviedo’s monuments, it’s essential to understand its historical significance. Located in northern Spain, the region of Asturias is considered the cradle of the Spanish Reconquista, a period in which Christian kingdoms reclaimed territory from Muslim rulers.

This historical context gives you a deeper understanding of the cultural and religious heritage that permeates the city.

Must-See Pre-Romanesque Sites:

The following are some of the most notable pre-Romanesque sites in Oviedo, offering a glimpse into the architectural prowess of its past:

  • San Julián de Samos (Church of San Julián de Samos): This iconic 9th-century church is a must-visit for any history buff. Located just outside the city in the village of Samos, it’s a beautifully preserved example of Asturian architecture and a significant testament to the region’s early Christian history.

  • San Miguel de Lillo (Church of San Miguel de Lillo): A stunning example of pre-Romanesque architecture with its unique “asturian” style. This 9th century church, located on a hill overlooking Oviedo, is known for its intricate carvings and historical context.

  • Santa María del Naranco: This former royal palace, turned into a magnificent church during the 9th century, now stands as a majestic landmark in the city’s cultural heritage. Its architecture and stunning views of the Picos de Europa mountain range make it a popular destination for tourists.

  • San Salvador (Church of San Salvador): Dating back to the 9th century, this church was originally built as the chapel for the palace.

The Holy Sites:

  • San Miguel de Luño: This 8th-century chapel is located in a breathtaking setting with views of Oviedo and the surrounding mountains.

  • San Pedro de la Iglesia: This charming church, dating back to the 9th century, is a testament to the city’s rich religious history.

Beyond the Churches:

While Asturias is famous for its stunning 9th-century churches, there are other historical and cultural sites worth exploring:

  • Oviedo: This vibrant city offers a plethora of attractions beyond its architectural wonders.

  • The Cathedral: The Catedral de San Salvador in Oviedo is a renowned example of pre-Romanesque architecture and art.

Other Pre-Romanesque Sites:

  • San Martín de Luiña (Church): Explore this unique structure, known for its intricate 9th century carvings.

  • Santa María del Naranco (Museum): Discover the history and artistry behind Asturias’s past in a dedicated museum housed within a former royal palace.

  • Museo Arqueológico de Asturias: This museum is a treasure trove of artifacts from the region’s pre-Romanesque era, allowing visitors to delve into the history and culture of the time.

  • The Archaeological Museum: This museum houses artifacts from the San Julián de los Reyes church, including a 10th century “crucero” (a type of transept).

A Deeper Dive into Pre-Romanesque Architecture:

Oviedo’s charm lies in its unique blend of architectural styles, reflecting its history as a center for art and culture.

  • The Cathedral of Oviedo: The stunning cathedral is a testament to the city’s rich history and religious heritage.

Beyond the Churches: Other Attractions:

  • The Cathedral Museum: This museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the construction and evolution of the cathedral, with exhibits on its architecture, art, and historical significance.

  • Plaza de la Catedral: This beautiful square is a popular gathering place for locals and tourists alike. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and admire the architecture of the surrounding buildings.

  • The Camino de Santiago (St. James Way): Oviedo serves as a gateway to the Camino de Santiago, a network of ancient pilgrimage routes leading to the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela. The city is located on the Camino Primitivo route, offering pilgrims a chance to start their journey and experience the historical and spiritual significance of this ancient path.

Exploring the Past:

  • The Oviedo Cathedral: This historic landmark boasts a breathtaking 9th century structure and stunning architectural details.
  • The Archaeological Park of Oviedo: This park showcases the city’s rich pre-Romanesque heritage through its reconstructed structures, including the original “asturian” style.

Beyond the Walls: Exploring the Region:

  • San Julián de los Reyes (Church): This church offers a unique experience as it is a 10-minute walk from the Cathedral, and features a beautifully preserved “crucero” (a type of cross-shaped structure) with religious art.

  • El Oviedo Archaeological Museum: Located in the 19th century chapel of the former monastery of San Salvador, this museum focuses on the history of Asturias and its cultural heritage.

Exploring the Asturian Legacy:

Oviedo is a region steeped in history and culture. The “crucero” of the El Camino Primitivo (the original “Camino de los Reyes”) is a unique feature that makes it worth visiting for anyone interested in medieval history.

  • The “Cruz de la Victoria”: This 10th century cross, known as the “Holy Cross,” stands prominently in the “crucero” and is a testament to the region’s rich religious history.

  • The “Oviedo Cathedral” (Cathedral of San Salvador): Explore the intricate carvings and architecture inside this magnificent building, showcasing the evolution of the “Oviedo Style.”

  • The Museo de Bellas Artes de Asturias: Discover a wealth of information about the art and artists who have shaped the region’s history.

  • The Cathedral Museum: Admire the architectural wonders of the past at the “Museo de la Catedral de Oviedo”

Beyond the “Camino”: The Rich History of El Oviedo:

  • The “Oviedo Style”: Discover the unique history and artistry of this period and style, which are deeply intertwined with the history of the city itself.
  • Pre-Romanesque Architecture: Explore the historical context of Asturias’s past through its stunning churches and monasteries built in a unique architectural style.

Beyond “Oviedo” (Optional):

  • Experience the beauty and history of Oviedo’s surrounding region by visiting nearby sites like the Church of Santa María de Naranco, which is also a 9th century masterpiece, or the Church of San Miguel de la Vega.
  • The Monastery of San Pedro de la Vega: This monastery, with its origins in the 8th century, is a testament to the city’s rich medieval heritage.

Beyond the “Camino”: The beauty and history of the region.

Exploring the “Camino” of Asturias:

  • Oviedo Cathedral:

    • The “Camino de la Catedral: This beautiful museum showcases the history of the “Oviedo Style” of architecture, a unique and impressive style that can be seen in many of the 10th century structures.

  • **The “Pre-Romanesque” influence: **

While Oviedo’s most famous architectural landmarks are the churches, understanding the region’s history with the “Camino de Santiago” (Way of St. James) helps you appreciate the city’s connection to a larger historical and cultural context.

  • Explore the “Oviedo Style” monuments: This is a unique style of architecture that originated in the 10th century, characterized by its distinctive architectural features.

  • The “Oviedo Style”: This era witnessed the construction of numerous churches and monuments across the region, showcasing the unique architectural style.

Beyond the “Orieve”: A Deeper Dive into the History of the Region’s Architecture:

  • Oviedo’s rich history:

  • The Camino de Oviedo:

Exploring the “Oviedo Style”: This is a unique opportunity to discover the region’s cultural heritage and architectural style, which was influential in the development of the “Camino de Santiago” as a pilgrimage route.

  • Beyond the “Oviedo Style”:

  • The Camino’s Influence on Oviedo: The “Camino de los Reyes” (Camino of the Kings) is a significant example of the “Camino de Santiago” and its influence on the city’s history.

Key Takeaways:

  • Visiting the “Museo Arqueológico de Asturias” (Archaeological Museum of the 10th century) allows you to see how archaeology helps us understand the past.

  • The “Camino Primitivo” is a unique experience for hikers and those interested in historical pilgrimages.

  • The “Camino de la Vega:

This historical “Oviedo Style” monument, dating back to the 10th century, is a testament to the region’s past. It’s important to note that this museum doesn’t exist in Oviedo, but it’s a common feature for sites associated with the Camino de Santiago.