Oviedo
· ES

Oviedo

Oviedo, Asturias, Spain

Oviedo: Where History Meets Cider in the Heart of Green Spain Nestled amidst the rolling hills and vibrant greenery of Asturias, Oviedo is a city that effortlessly blends its rich history with a modern, vibrant spirit. …

#Oviedo#Asturias#Spain#Historic architecture#Cultural heritage
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Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Oviedo.

Top Hotels in Oviedo

Top Flights to Oviedo

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Oviedo.

Tours

Exploring Oviedo Cathedral

Visit the impressive Gothic-style Oviedo Cathedral, a key landmark in the heart of the city.

San Francisco Park Stroll

Relax and explore the serene San Francisco Park in Oviedo's city center.

Oviedo Old Town Walk

Explore the charming streets and plazas of Oviedo's historic old town.

Shopping

El Fontán Market Visit

Discover local foods and crafts at the vibrant El Fontán Market.

Outdoor

Naranco Mount Hiking

Enjoy a hike on Naranco Mount and embrace the panoramic views of Oviedo.

Cider Tasting Tour

Participate in a guided tour to taste Asturias' famous cider and learn about its production.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Oviedo.

Currency
€ | EUR | Euro
Population
Information not available.
Average weather
Oviedo
Jan
rain
12°5°
Feb
rain
13°5°
Mar
cloud
15°6°
Apr
rain
16°8°
May
cloud
18°10°
Jun
cloud
21°13°
Jul
sun
23°15°
Aug
sun
23°15°
Sep
cloud
22°14°
Oct
rain
18°11°
Nov
rain
14°8°
Dec
rain
12°6°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Oviedo.

What people love

Oviedo, located in Asturias, Spain, has many wonderful aspects that make it a great destination for travelers. Here are some of the pros of traveling to Oviedo:

  1. Historical and Cultural Heritage: Oviedo is a city rich in history and culture. It boasts a well-preserved old town with charming medieval architecture, including the beautiful Gothic Cathedral of San Salvador and the historic University of Oviedo.

  2. Gastronomy: Asturias is known for its delicious cuisine, and Oviedo is no exception. Visitors can enjoy traditional Asturian dishes such as fabada (a hearty bean stew), cachopo (a breaded and fried meat dish), and of course, sidra (cider).

  3. Natural Beauty: Oviedo is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, including the Picos de Europa National Park, which offers opportunities for hiking, biking, and other outdoor activities.

  4. Festivals and Events: Oviedo hosts various festivals and events throughout the year, such as the Feast of San Mateo in September, which includes concerts, markets, and traditional celebrations.

  5. Friendly Locals: The people of Oviedo are known for their warmth and hospitality, making visitors feel welcome and at home.

Overall, Oviedo is a fantastic destination for travelers looking to experience a mix of history, culture, gastronomy, and natural beauty in a charming Spanish city.

What to know

Traveling to Oviedo, located in Asturias, Spain, may have some cons to consider:

  1. Weather: Oviedo experiences a maritime climate, which means it can be quite rainy and cloudy throughout the year. If you prefer sunny and warm weather, Oviedo might not be the ideal destination for you.

  2. Language Barriers: While Spanish is the official language in Oviedo, some locals may primarily speak Asturian, a regional dialect. This could potentially pose a challenge for communication if you are not fluent in Spanish.

  3. Limited Public Transportation: Oviedo is a relatively small city, and its public transportation system might not be as extensive or efficient as in larger cities. Depending on your planned activities, getting around the city could be a bit more challenging.

  4. Crowds and Tourist Season: During peak tourist seasons, Oviedo can get crowded with visitors, especially in popular areas such as the Old Town or during festivals. This might affect your overall experience if you prefer a quieter and more relaxed environment.

  5. Limited Nightlife: While Oviedo offers a vibrant cultural scene, including traditional cider bars and local music venues, the city might not have as bustling a nightlife as other larger Spanish cities like Barcelona or Madrid.

Overall, while Oviedo is a charming and historic city with much to offer, these factors could be considered cons depending on your preferences and travel expectations.

Oviedo, the capital of the province of Asturias in northern Spain, boasts a rich history that dates back over a millennium. Here is a detailed account of its significant events, historical figures, and important landmarks:

Founding and Early History

  • 757 AD: Oviedo was founded by two monks, Máximo and Fromestano, who established a monastic settlement on the site. This settlement grew into a town.
  • 761 AD: The construction of a church dedicated to Saint Vincent marked the beginning of Oviedo's development as a religious center.

The Asturian Kingdom

  • 808 AD: Under Alfonso II, Oviedo became the capital of the Kingdom of Asturias. Alfonso II is credited with the discovery of the tomb of St. James in Santiago de Compostela, which became a major pilgrimage site.
  • 9th Century: The city flourished as the political and religious center of Asturias. During this period, several pre-Romanesque churches were built, many of which still stand today.

Medieval and Renaissance Periods

  • 13th Century: Oviedo's influence declined as the Kingdom of Asturias was absorbed by the Kingdom of León, and later by the Kingdom of Castile.
  • 1608: The University of Oviedo was founded, which became a significant center of learning and culture in the region.

Modern History

  • 19th Century: Oviedo experienced significant industrial growth, particularly in coal mining and steel production, which brought economic prosperity to the region.
  • 1934: The city was a focal point during the Asturian miners' strike, a significant social upheaval that was violently suppressed by the Spanish government.
  • Spanish Civil War (1936-1939): Oviedo was besieged during the war, suffering considerable damage.

Post-Civil War to Present

  • Post-War Period: Reconstruction efforts restored many of the city's historic buildings and infrastructure.
  • Late 20th Century: Oviedo experienced cultural revitalization, partly due to its designation as the provincial capital and the growth of the University of Oviedo.

Important Landmarks

  • Cathedral of San Salvador: A Gothic cathedral that houses a collection of relics, including the Shroud of Oviedo.
  • Santa María del Naranco: Originally a royal palace, this pre-Romanesque building is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
  • San Miguel de Lillo: Another pre-Romanesque church, known for its intricate carvings.
  • La Foncalada: A unique ninth-century fountain, also a UNESCO World Heritage site.
  • Plaza del Fontán: A historic market square that remains a bustling center of commerce and social life.

Cultural Contributions

Oviedo has been a cultural hub in northern Spain, home to various festivals, including the renowned Fiestas de San Mateo. The city inspired the setting for Leopoldo Alas' novel "La Regenta," a classic of Spanish literature.

Overall, Oviedo's rich history, architectural heritage, and cultural significance make it an important city in the Asturias region and Spain as a whole.