Oviedo
TownSanta María del Naranco was raised as a palace hall for King Ramiro I in the ninth century, and stands intact above Oviedo.
What it actually is
Be clear first: Oviedo is not on the coast. It sits at about 336 m, roughly 25 km inland and half an hour from Gijón. It is here for the one Asturian marvel that is not a landscape: pre-Romanesque architecture, UNESCO-listed since 1985. Treat it as a day trip.
What to see, and for how long
The two essentials sit on Monte Naranco: Santa María del Naranco and, minutes away, San Miguel de Lillo. Both ninth-century, small and startling. The cathedral holds the Cámara Santa.
Frequently asked questions
Is Oviedo on the coast?
No. It is roughly 25 km inland at about 336 m. The nearest coastal city is Gijón.
Which buildings come first?
Santa María del Naranco and San Miguel de Lillo, close together on Monte Naranco.
Can I get there without a car?
Yes. Trains and buses run from Gijón; the Naranco churches need a taxi.
Explore more of the Costa Verde
Oviedo is one of many destinations on the CostaMap interactive map — browse beaches, coves, castles and viewpoints across the coast.