Discover the Cathedral of Oviedo and the Original Way of St. James
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Cathedral of Oviedo and the Original Way of St. James
Oviedo, the capital of the Principality of Asturias, is a city that blends history, art, culture, and spirituality in every corner. With cobbled streets, charming squares, and an atmosphere that mixes tradition and modernity, this city has become an essential destination for those seeking authentic experiences in Spain. Among its most outstanding treasures is the Cathedral of San Salvador of Oviedo, a temple that combines Gothic, Romanesque, and Pre-Romanesque elements and houses relics of great historical and religious value.
But Oviedo does not shine only for its monumental heritage: the city is also the starting point of the Primitive Way of St. James, the original route to Santiago de Compostela that King Alfonso II began in the 9th century, and which today attracts pilgrims and travellers from all over the world.
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The Cathedral of Oviedo: a journey through history and art
The Cathedral of Oviedo began to be built in the 9th century, although it has undergone extensions and renovations over the centuries, which explains the interesting combination of architectural styles we can admire today. The blend of Gothic, Romanesque, and Pre-Romanesque makes every corner of the temple uniquely valuable, both for art lovers and for those who enjoy exploring history.
One of the main attractions of the cathedral is the Holy Chamber, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This room houses some of the most important relics in Christendom, such as the Cross of the Angels, a symbol of the city, and the Holy Shroud, which draws both devotees and the curious. In addition, the cathedral features a 14th-century transept and tower that offer impressive panoramic views, ideal for capturing the essence of Oviedo from above.
Walking through the cathedral means immersing yourself in centuries of history: its stained-glass windows, sculptures, and architectural details tell stories of faith, power, and tradition that remain alive today. Visitors can appreciate how every element, from the columns to the frescoes, reflects a specific period in the history of Asturias and Spain, making the visit a complete cultural experience.
Read also: Primitive way of santiago
Primitive Way of St. James: the oldest route
The Primitive Way of St. James is known as the original route to Santiago de Compostela, initiated by King Alfonso II “the Chaste.” This historic route offers pilgrims and travelers an authentic experience, combining the beauty of natural landscapes with the cultural richness and history of Asturias and Galicia. Unlike other routes, the Primitive Way is characterized by its more rural and mountainous surroundings, allowing those who walk it to feel in direct contact with nature.
Along the route, travelers pass through charming villages where everyday life remains closely tied to centuries-old traditions. Each town offers opportunities to explore local architecture, museums, historic churches, and traditional markets. In addition, the route allows visitors to enjoy Asturian hospitality, with inns, hostels, and restaurants that invite them to relax and sample the local cuisine.
The landscapes of the Primitive Way are another of its great attractions. Mountains, valleys, rivers, and forests unfold along the route, offering a perfect setting for hiking, photography, and connecting with nature. This route is ideal for those seeking a spiritual pilgrimage or simply an adventure that combines exercise, culture, and reflection.
Tips for Those Planning to Visit
To make the most of Oviedo and the Primitive Way, it is advisable to plan the trip while considering several aspects:
Best time to travel: Spring and summer are ideal due to the pleasant weather and the lush green landscapes that make the route more enjoyable.
Recommended duration: Between 7 and 10 days to complete the route from Oviedo to Lugo or Santiago, depending on each pilgrim’s pace.
What to bring: Comfortable footwear, clothing suitable for hiking, and a light backpack with the essentials. It is also recommended to bring sun protection and enough water for the longer stages.
Read also: WHAT THE CAMINO DE SANTIAGO GIVES YOU
A unique cultural and gastronomic experience
Oviedo and the Primitive Way stand out not only for their historical and natural heritage but also for their gastronomy. The Asturian region offers dishes that reflect the richness of its local products and culinary traditions. Among the must-tries are fabada asturiana, a traditional bean stew with sausages; Cabrales cheese, famous for its intense flavor; and natural cider, a typical drink served in traditional cider houses. Tasting these products in restaurants and cider houses along the Way is part of the journey and allows visitors to fully experience the local culture.
In addition, local festivals and traditional markets provide opportunities to interact with the community and learn more about the history, crafts, and customs of Asturias. Every stop along the Primitive Way can become a lesson in culture and hospitality, making the experience truly unforgettable.
Plan Your Visit to Oviedo
Visiting the Cathedral of Oviedo and walking part of the Primitive Way of St. James is an opportunity to combine history, art, nature, gastronomy, and spirituality in a single trip. Whether you are a pilgrim seeking a personal challenge, a history enthusiast, or a traveler interested in culture and cuisine, Oviedo and its surroundings offer a complete experience that will stay in your memory long after returning home.
The city and its surroundings invite you to discover the richness of Asturias step by step, stage by stage, creating memories that combine the beauty of its landscapes with the depth of its historical legacy.
With Galicia Travels, it is possible to organize this unique experience: walk the Primitive Way from Oviedo and, once completed, continue with excursions to explore Galicia and Santiago de Compostela, discovering their heritage, gastronomy, and landscapes in a comfortable and well-planned way, ensuring that every stage of the journey is unforgettable.