02 Mar Pre-Romanesque monuments in Oviedo: a journey to the origin of the Kingdom of Asturias
To speak of Oviedo is to speak of living history. Long before the Romanesque and Gothic periods, a unique artistic style in Europe was born here: Asturian Pre-Romanesque, a testament to the splendor of the ancient Kingdom of Asturias and today one of the great cultural treasures of northern Spain.
Visiting these monuments is not just tourism; it is traveling back more than a thousand years and understanding the origins of an identity.
Santa María del Naranco, symbol of Oviedo
At the top of Mount Naranco stands the most iconic jewel of pre-Romanesque architecture: Santa María del Naranco. Built in the 9th century as a royal palace and later converted into a church, it is striking for its elegance, perfect proportions, and semicircular arches that foreshadow European Romanesque style.
From there, the views over Oviedo are also spectacular. A must-see for any visitor.
San Miguel de Lillo, delicacy and mystery
A short distance away is San Miguel de Lillo, a church that retains part of its original structure and is notable for the richness of its reliefs and sculptural details. Every stone tells a story, every decoration reflects the artistic refinement of the Asturian court.
San Julián de los Prados (Santullano), the great mural church
Located in the heart of the town is San Julián de los Prados, also known as Santullano. It is the largest pre-Romanesque church in Spain and houses one of the most important collections of early medieval mural paintings in Europe.
Entering it is to discover a sober, monumental, and profoundly spiritual space.
World Heritage Site
These monuments are part of the group declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO under the name of Monuments of Oviedo and the Kingdom of Asturias, a recognition that confirms their exceptional universal value.
Experience history… and relax in the heart of the city
After a day exploring Mount Naranco and strolling through the historic center, there’s nothing better than staying at the iconic Gran Hotel España.
Located next to the Cathedral and just minutes from the main monuments, it combines tradition, elegance, and comfort in the heart of the historic center. It’s the perfect starting point for discovering Oviedo on foot and the ideal place to relax after a day immersed in history.
A cultural getaway that has it all
Oviedo is more than just pre-Romanesque art: it’s gastronomy, cider, charming squares, and a tranquil, welcoming atmosphere that makes you want to stay.
If you’re looking for a different, cultural, and authentic getaway, this is your destination.
Come to Oviedo.
Discover Asturian pre-Romanesque architecture.
And make the Gran Hotel España your home away from home.