Oviedo

Oviedo, capital of the Principality of Asturias, is one of the most fascinating cities in the north of Spain. A very noble city, very loyal, meritorious, undefeated, heroic and good are some of the mottos of its coat of arms, and the truth is that it is not without reason.

In Oviedo, quick visits are not enough. Getting to know the "Vetusta" of which Leopoldo Alas Clarín spoke in La Regenta requires a stroll through the old quarter. Having a cider in El Fontán square, shopping in the market, visiting the Cathedral, wandering through the narrow streets near the basilica, or taking the time to stroll around the most traditional squares are some of the essential ways to get to know the essence of Oviedo in depth.

The Cathedral of San Salvador

Undoubtedly the great jewel of Oviedo is the Cathedral of San Salvador, a mecca of pilgrimage for centuries as it houses the most important collection of relics of Christianity in Spain.

The Cathedral is located in the Plaza Alfonso II. In one of the corners of the square, you can find a statue of Ana Ozores, La Regenta. The popular work by Leopoldo Alas “Clarín” took place in Vetusta, the name he used to mask the city of Oviedo, which caused a scandal at the time.

The current building was begun in the 13th century on the site of the original 9th-century pre-Romanesque cathedral. Some structures from that first cathedral, such as the Holy Chamber, have survived the passage of time.

The Holy Chamber has been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Inside, it holds the Victory Cross, symbol of Asturias, and the Angels' Cross, symbol of the city. It also houses the Agate Box and the Holy Ark, which contains the Holy Shroud, venerated as a burial cloth of Jesus of Nazareth.

Fontán Square

The Plaza del Fontán is the epicentre of the city and a popular meeting point. It is located where a natural lagoon fed by springs once stood, hence the name. After an intense rehabilitation, the square is now one of the most beautiful spots in the old town and continues to host street stalls, as do the Plaza de Daoíz y Velarde and the surrounding streets.

Fontán Market

One of the most wonderful places in Oviedo is the Fontán Market. Located next to the square, this market was built by architect Javier Aguirre between 1882 and 1885 and is included in the catalogue of protected buildings of Oviedo. It stands out for its large windows that provide exceptional light. Today, you can find plenty of stalls full of fresh produce and traditional Asturian products.

Constitution Square

The Plaza de la Constitución is one of the most central and important squares in the city, serving as a strategic point to access emblematic monuments. Built in the 17th century, it has had various names, including Plaza Mayor and Plaza de la República. It was also one of the most damaged areas during the Civil War.

Trascorrales Square and the Milkmaid statue

Trascorrales is one of the most picturesque squares in the city. Small and cozy, it features the famous statue of “The Milkmaid”. It is tucked away in the labyrinthine streets of the old town, near the Town Hall.

Oviedo Conference Centre

Known locally as “El Calatrava” after its architect Santiago Calatrava, its construction sparked controversy as many felt the avant-garde design did not fit the city's aesthetic. Despite this, it has become a modern symbol of Oviedo.

Campo de San Francisco Park

The capital of Asturias boasts a large green area in the heart of the city. Campo de San Francisco is a natural lung located on the former orchards of the San Francisco Convent. Covering 90,000 square metres, it is the perfect place for those seeking tranquility surrounded by nature.

Shopping on Uría Street

For shopping, Calle Uría is the place to go. Its construction was also controversial, as it required the removal of the Carbayón de Oviedo, a centuries-old oak tree. Today, a plaque on the ground of the Plaza de la Escandalera marks where it once stood.

Gastronomy

If you enjoy good food, in Oviedo you will end up “fartucu” (stuffed). Manuel Pedregal street is the go-to spot for drinking wine and eating pinchos or tapas. In the old town, you will find Gascona street, famous for its cider bars. For those with a sweet tooth, a stop at Rialto, one of the city's most famous confectioneries, is essential.