Oviedo Travel Guide: History, Nature & Gastronomy

Oviedo: History and Present

Oviedo, capital of the Principality of Asturias, originated in the 8th century on land covered in dense vegetation, near an ancient Roman road that connected important points such as Lugo, Llanera, Pajares, and León. This route provided access to the area, allowing the monk Fromistano and his nephew Máximo to arrive and found a small church dedicated to Saint Vincent.

Over time, another 25 monks joined them and built a monastery around which an urban center developed, welcoming people fleeing the Muslim invasion in other regions.

Oviedo Today

Currently, the municipality of Oviedo has approximately 220,000 inhabitants, of which around 215,000 live in the city proper. In addition to the capital, the municipality is made up of a total of 30 parishes. Oviedo’s strategic location has been a decisive factor in its designation as the political and administrative seat of the Principality of Asturias.

Today, Oviedo has established itself as one of the most important tourist destinations in northern Spain. This growth has been driven by improved transportation and infrastructure tailored to the new demands of tourism. Throughout the year, the city offers a wide and varied cultural program including concerts, theater, exhibitions, and other events of interest.

Nature and Gastronomy

The municipality of Oviedo also invites visitors to enjoy its natural surroundings through routes and walks that combine art, history, and nature. Recreational activities available in the area include golf, horse riding, and hiking, making it an ideal place for those seeking to combine culture and nature.

As for gastronomy, Oviedo offers a rich variety of traditional Asturian dishes such as fabada, cachopo, and rice pudding. The city features a wide range of restaurants and cider houses where you can enjoy both classic recipes and modern, innovative cuisine, consolidating Oviedo as a gastronomic reference point in the region.