Oviedo

Oviedo is the capital of the “Principality of Asturias” and dates back to the 8th century.
It is only 28kms from the sea but also within easy distance of the mountains, in fact from “Naranco” mountain,situated just 5kms from the centre of the city, on a clear day there is an excellent view of Oviedo.

The main part of the city is pedestrian so it is pleasant to stroll along the streets admiring the many fountains and sculptures. Oviedo has received awards on several occasions for its outstanding cleanliness, visitors are normally impressed by how clean the city is.

The cathedral, the Town hall, museums, and other emblematic buildings as well as bars and restaurants are all in the old part of the city which is completely pedestrian and definitely a must if you visit Oviedo.

There is also a theatre, the “Campoamor” where many cultural activities are held throughout the year the most famous being “Los Premios del Princípe de Asturias” (prizes intended to acknowledge scientific, technical, cultural, social and humanitarian work).

There are several monuments to be seen in Oviedo but there are two of special interest just 3kms.from the centre. “Santa Maria del Naranco” and “San Miguel de Lillo” both of these were declared World Heritage Sites by UNESCO in 1985.
“Santa Maria del Naranco”, pre-Romanesque (848), was a palace built by king Ramiro 1st who set Oviedo as base.
In those days the area around Naranco mountain was a great hunting location, so the palace was used as a resting place and amusement site for the hunters. “San Miguel de Lillo” , built at the same time by Ramiro 1st was a church. In the 15th century there was a landslide and part of the church was destroyed so the religious services were held in the palace. Both monuments have recently been somewhat restored.

If you like Opera, Oviedo has a considerable amount of shows which you can check out at www.operaoviedo.com

Oviedo is a town to leave your car parked and walk around, it is a small and easy town to get around.
Many streets in the centre are pedestrian only as is the whole of the old part, this gives the town a clean and relaxed atmosphere as well as a healthier way to explore it.

TUA bus company operates the buses that run to and from different parts of town, you are probably never too far from a bus stop if you don´t wish to walk. Check times and routes at the tourist information office

Oviedo Tourist information Office

Marqués de Santa Cruz S/N
33007 Oviedo
Phone: +34 985 227 586
email: oficina.turismo@ayto-oviedo.es

Asturias Tourist information Office

C/ Cimadevilla 4
33003 Oviedo
Phone: +34 902 300 202

Useful links

Download Oviedo street map (pdf 7,2MB)