Oviedo (Uviéu, in Asturian language) is a city and municipality in northern Spain. Discover gorgeous ancient cathedrals and monasteries as well as excellent examples of modern architecture, such as the Edificio La Jirafa (Giraffe Building). Taste Oviedo’s many famous dishes and admire its natural landscape.
By the year 720, Muslims occupied most of Spain, but the area that is now Oviedo was uninhabited it wasn’t considered very attractive from an economical point of view. King Alfonso II El Casto (The Chaste, King of Asturias from 791 to 842) established Oviedo as the capital of Asturias and constructed a royal palace and several of its stunning churches. The Universidad de Oviedo (Oviedo University) was created at the beginning of the 17th century and helped accelerate the urban development of the city. Visit Oviedo to enjoy some of Spain’s most impressive religious buildings.
Stroll through Oviedo’s historic quarter. Find the city’s cathedral Catedral Metropolitana Basílica de San Salvador (Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica of the Holy Savior, also simply known as Cathedral of San Salvador). The elegant church has mixed architectural styles of Gothic, Baroque and Renaissance. Admire its beautiful façade with a tall tower and rose window. Stop off at the Cámara Santa de Oviedo (Sacred Chamber or Chapel of San Miguel) located inside the cathedral. It houses religious treasures, including the Arca Santa (Holy Ark) and the Cruz de la Victoria (Cross of Victory).
See other impressive buildings in the area, such as the Museo Arqueológico de Asturias (Archaeological Museum) and the church Iglesia de San Tirso.
Enjoy Oviedo’s lovely squares, such as Plaza de Trascorrales, and the interesting buildings around them. Taste the region’s gastronomy of delicious cheeses, seafood and Asturian fabes (fabada beans). Outside the city, discover the Costa Verde, a coastline with fabulous natural scenery.
Oviedo is the capital of Asturias and is located between the Golfo de Vizcaya (Bay of Biscay) and the Cordillera Cantábrica (Cantabrian Mountains).
