Oviedo

Santa María del Naranco

Built in the 9th century during the reign of Ramiro I, this palace is a masterpiece of Asturian Pre-Romanesque architecture with Paleo-Byzantine roots that you must visit. Inside, you will observe vaulted halls with transverse arches and twisted-shaft columns on the upper floor, architectural details demonstrating the sophistication of the era. Access is via public transport or car up Mount Naranco, though you should note that visiting hours are limited. As a UNESCO monument, its conservation is paramount, so it is advisable to check opening times before heading up.

Cathedral of San Salvador of Oviedo (Catedral de San Salvador de Oviedo)

This religious building, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985, is the spiritual heart of the city and a labyrinth of history in itself. Entry requires a ticket, ensuring controlled access to its artistic and religious treasures. Integrated within this complex is the Holy Chamber (Cámara Santa), a 9th-century Pre-Romanesque building that once guarded the relics of the Kingdom of Asturias. It is the ideal starting point for understanding the city’s evolution from its medieval origins to the present day.

San Miguel de Lillo

Founded in the 9th century alongside Santa María del Naranco, this temple originally had three naves, of which only the entrance remains, offering an open-air lesson in architectural history. Notable features include its windows with pierced stone latticework and reliefs on the jambs of the main door, elements that have withstood the passage of centuries. Visits are conducted jointly with Santa María del Naranco under a single entry fee, facilitating the tour of Mount Naranco. Like its neighbor, it is part of the UNESCO ensemble, ensuring its protection and international value.

San Julián de los Prados (Santullano)

Built between the years 812 and 842 under the rule of Alfonso II, it is the largest Pre-Romanesque building and one of the best preserved. Declared a National Monument and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, its interior houses original mural paintings with geometric decoration and simulated architecture that will leave you breathless. The monument offers free admission and specific opening hours, making it a very accessible option for travelers. It is a mandatory stop for anyone interested in Early Middle Ages mural art.

La Foncalada

This unique 9th-century Pre-Romanesque public fountain was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985. It is a historical landmark demonstrating the hydraulic engineering of the time and its importance for supplying the ancient city. Although smaller in scale compared to the churches, its symbolic value is enormous within the Oviedo monumental ensemble. Located within the urban environment, it recalls the glorious past of the Asturian capital amidst today’s bustle.

Other points of interest

• Cámara Santa: A 9th-century pre-Romanesque building integrated into the Cathedral housing treasures such as the Cruz de los Ángeles (Cross of the Angels); prior booking or a guided tour is required.
• Pre-Romanesque Monuments of Mount Naranco: A complex of buildings offering panoramic views, including Santa María del Naranco and San Miguel de Lillo.
• Museum of Fine Arts of Asturias: An important collection of Spanish art spanning from the Middle Ages to the present day, featuring works by renowned artists.
• Teatro Campoamor: Inaugurated in 1892 with a neoclassical façade, it hosts opera performances and the Princess of Asturias Awards ceremony.
• Palace of the Counts of Toreno: A 17th-century Baroque construction located in Porlier Square, birthplace of the Count of Toreno.
• Plaza de la Escandalera: One of Oviedo’s most iconic and central squares.
• Plaza del Fontán: A historic square situated next to the covered market of the same name.
• Plaza Daoiz y Velarde: A significant public space within Oviedo’s urban layout.
• Plaza de Trascorrales: A pedestrian square in the historic center connecting commercial streets with the monumental area.
• Plaza de Alfonso II El Casto: A square located in the surroundings of the Cathedral and historical monuments.
• Plaza de América: An open space popularly known as the “square of the birds.”
• Plaza de la Constitución: Known as Plaza del Ayuntamientu, it concentrates social life and outdoor terraces in the historic center.
• Campo de San Francisco: Oviedo’s green lung, a central urban park ideal for strolling and relaxing.
• Plaza de la Catedral: The historic heart dominated by the Cathedral and surrounded by emblematic buildings.
• Archaeological Museum of Asturias: Explores the history of Asturias from Prehistory to the Middle Ages through its artifacts.
• Plaza del Carbayón: A central square in Oviedo with vibrant commercial and social activity.
• Old Town of Oviedo: A labyrinth of pedestrian streets featuring historic buildings, charming squares, and a lively commercial and gastronomic scene.