The Woody Allen Statue in Oviedo
- The Statue of Woody Allen in Oviedo
- Museo de Bellas Artes de Asturias
- Camino de Santiago
- Tips for Pilgrims Walking the Camino
- Plaza de la Escandalera
- Catedral de San Salvador
- Monte Naranco: A Natural Paradise on the Edge of the City
- Sidra
- Church of San Isidoro
- Museo del Pueblo de Asturias
- Plaza Mayor
- Insider Tip: Discover the Enchanting Cueva del Agua
The Statue of Woody Allen in Oviedo
In the heart of the vibrant city of Oviedo, nestled amidst centuries-old architecture and a palpable sense of history, stands a peculiar and unexpected sight: a bronze statue of the renowned filmmaker Woody Allen. Unveiled in 2003, the statue pays homage to Allen's deep connection to Oviedo, where he filmed part of his 2001 movie, "Vicky Cristina Barcelona."
The statue, crafted by sculptor Vicente Menéndez Santarúa, captures Allen in his quintessential pose, glasses perched on his nose and a pensive expression etched on his face. The figure stands tall, as if contemplating the bustling city that has embraced him as one of its own. The statue's placement in the Plaza de Porlier, opposite the Campoamor Theater, a cultural landmark in Oviedo, further cements Allen's status as a beloved figure in the city's cultural landscape.
Beyond its artistic merit, the statue holds profound significance for Oviedo. It stands as a testament to the city's vibrant cultural scene, its openness to the arts, and its ability to attract and inspire creative minds from around the globe. Allen's presence in Oviedo, immortalized in bronze, has contributed to the city's reputation as a cultural hub and a welcoming destination for artists and filmmakers alike.
Museo de Bellas Artes de Asturias
The Museo de Bellas Artes de Asturias (Museum of Fine Arts of Asturias) is a museum located in Oviedo, Asturias, Spain. It was founded in 1844 and is one of the most important museums in the region. The museum's collection includes over 15,000 works of art, including paintings, sculptures, drawings, and prints. The museum is housed in a former Benedictine monastery that was built in the 16th century. The monastery was declared a national monument in 193
The museum's collection includes works by some of the most famous artists in Spanish history, including El Greco, Francisco Goya, and Salvador Dalí. The museum also has a significant collection of works by Asturian artists, including Nicanor Piñole and Aurelio Suárez.
Some of the highlights of the collection include El Greco's "The Burial of Count Orgaz," Goya's "The Third of May 1808," and Dalí's "The Persistence of Memory." The museum also has a collection of Romanesque and Gothic art, as well as a collection of contemporary art.
The Museo de Bellas Artes de Asturias is a must-see for anyone interested in Spanish art. The museum's collection is vast and varied, and it offers a comprehensive overview of the history of Spanish art. The museum is also housed in a beautiful building that is worth visiting in its own right.
Practical information for visitors:
- The museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday from 10am to 8pm.
- Admission is free of charge.
- The museum is located in the heart of Oviedo, on the Plaza de Alfonso II el Casto.
- The museum is wheelchair accessible.
- The museum offers guided tours in Spanish and English.
Camino de Santiago
The Camino de Santiago, also called the Way of Saint James, is a network of ancient pilgrim routes that lead to the tomb of Saint James the Great in the cathedral of Santiago de Compostela in Galicia, in northwestern Spain. The Camino has been a popular pilgrimage route for over 1,000 years, and millions of people have walked it for religious, cultural, and personal reasons.
There are many different routes that one can take on the Camino, and each route has its own unique challenges and rewards. Some of the most popular routes include:
- The French Way, which starts in the Pyrenees and crosses northern Spain.
- The Portuguese Way, which starts in Portugal and enters Spain at Tui.
- The Northern Way, which starts in the Basque Country and follows the coast of the Bay of Biscay.
- The English Way, which starts in Ferrol and follows the coast of Galicia.
Pilgrims on the Camino typically walk between 15 and 25 kilometers per day, and they often stay in hostels or albergues along the way. The Camino is a challenging journey, but it is also a rewarding one. Pilgrims often say that the Camino is a life-changing experience, and it is a great way to learn about Spanish culture and history.
Tips for Pilgrims Walking the Camino
Here are a few tips for pilgrims walking the Camino:
- Train before you go. The Camino is a long and challenging walk, so it is important to be in good physical condition before you start.
- Pack light. You will be carrying your backpack for many miles, so it is important to pack only the essentials.
- Break in your boots before you start. Blisters are a common problem for pilgrims, so it is important to make sure your boots are comfortable before you start walking.
- Be prepared for all weather conditions. The weather on the Camino can be unpredictable, so it is important to be prepared for rain, sun, and cold.
- Be open to new experiences. The Camino is a great way to meet new people and learn about new cultures. Be open to trying new things and meeting new people.
Plaza de la Escandalera
Plaza de la Escandalera is a large square in the center of Gijón. The square is surrounded by historic buildings, including the Ayuntamiento (City Hall), the Teatro Jovellanos (Jovellanos Theater), and the Palacio Revillagigedo (Revillagigedo Palace). The square is also home to a number of shops, restaurants, and cafes.
The Plaza de la Escandalera has been a gathering place for centuries. In the Middle Ages, the square was used for bullfights and other public events. Today, the square is still a popular place for people to meet and socialize. It is also a popular venue for concerts, festivals, and other events.
The architecture of the Plaza de la Escandalera is a mix of different styles. The Ayuntamiento is a neoclassical building, while the Teatro Jovellanos is an example of Spanish Baroque architecture. The Palacio Revillagigedo is a Renaissance building. The different architectural styles of the buildings surrounding the square make it a visually interesting place to visit.
The Plaza de la Escandalera is a great place to relax and enjoy the atmosphere of Gijón. There are a number of benches in the square where you can sit and watch the world go by. There are also a number of shops, restaurants, and cafes in the square where you can grab a bite to eat or a drink.
Catedral de San Salvador
The Catedral de San Salvador, commonly called La Catedral, is a Roman Catholic church located in the city of Oviedo, in the province of Asturias, Spain. It is the seat of the Archdiocese of Oviedo. The cathedral is a Gothic building with a long history and is one of the most important religious buildings in Asturias. The history of the cathedral can be traced back to the 8th century, when a small church was built on the site of a former Roman temple. The church was later expanded and rebuilt several times over the centuries, and the current building dates from the 14th to 16th centuries. The cathedral is a Gothic building with a mix of architectural styles. The exterior of the cathedral is dominated by its large buttresses, which support the high walls of the nave. The interior of the cathedral is spacious and bright, with a high vaulted ceiling. The cathedral is home to a number of important religious artifacts, including the Holy Chamber, which contains the relics of several saints. The cathedral is also home to a number of beautiful works of art, including paintings, sculptures, and stained glass windows. Practical information for visitors: The Catedral de San Salvador is open to the public daily. Admission is free. The cathedral is located in the center of Oviedo, and is easily accessible by foot or by public transportation.
Monte Naranco: A Natural Paradise on the Edge of the City
Monte Naranco is a verdant mountain range that rises majestically on the southern outskirts of Gijón, offering a breathtaking natural retreat just a stone's throw from the city's vibrant urban center. Its slopes are adorned with lush forests, verdant meadows, and sparkling streams, creating a picturesque landscape that invites exploration and rejuvenation.
For outdoor enthusiasts, Monte Naranco is a haven of hiking trails that wind through its pristine wilderness. These trails cater to all levels of experience, from gentle strolls suitable for families with young children to challenging ascents that reward hikers with panoramic vistas of the surrounding countryside. As you traverse the mountain's paths, keep an eye out for the diverse flora and fauna that call this natural paradise home, including wild ponies, deer, and a variety of bird species.
One of the highlights of Monte Naranco is the Mirador del Fito, a viewpoint that offers awe-inspiring views of the entire Gijón metropolitan area, the vast Bay of Biscay, and the distant Picos de Europa mountain range. On a clear day, you can even catch a glimpse of the coastline of neighboring Cantabria. The panoramic vistas from this vantage point are truly breathtaking and make it a popular destination for both locals and tourists alike.
To reach Monte Naranco, you can either embark on a scenic hike from the city center or take a short bus ride to the base of the mountain. Once there, you can choose from a variety of trails that suit your fitness level and interests. Whether you're seeking a leisurely stroll or an invigorating hike, Monte Naranco offers an unforgettable outdoor experience that will leave you feeling refreshed and revitalized.
Sidra
In the region of Asturias, sidra is not just a drink, but a cultural symbol. The history of sidra in Asturias dates back to the Roman era, and the region is now renowned for producing some of the finest ciders in Spain.
Sidra is made from a special type of apple that is only found in Asturias. These apples are small and sour, and they are perfect for making cider. The apples are crushed and then fermented in oak barrels for several months. Once the fermentation process is complete, the cider is bottled and ready to drink.
Sidra is typically served in a special glass called a culín. The culín is a small, narrow glass that is designed to enhance the flavor of the cider. To drink sidra, you must hold the culín at arm's length and pour the cider into your mouth in a single stream. This technique is called escanciar.
There are many different types of sidra, each with its own unique flavor. Some of the most popular types of sidra include:
- Sidra natural: This is the most common type of sidra. It is made from 100% apple juice and has a naturally cloudy appearance.
- Sidra brut: This type of sidra is made from a blend of apple juice and sparkling water. It is clear and has a higher carbonation level than sidra natural.
- Sidra dulce: This type of sidra is made with a higher proportion of sugar than other types of sidra. It is sweeter and has a lower alcohol content.
Sidra can be enjoyed at any time of day, but it is especially popular as an aperitif or after-dinner drink. It is often served with pinchos, which are small snacks that are typically served on skewers.
If you are visiting Gijón, be sure to try some of the local sidra. You can find sidra at most bars and restaurants in the city.
The Roman baths of Campo Valdés are a complex of Roman baths located in the city of Gijón, in the province of Asturias, Spain. They were built in the 1st century AD and were used until the 5th century AD. The baths were discovered in 1903 during the construction of a new road. They are one of the best-preserved Roman baths in Spain and are a significant example of Roman engineering and architecture.
The architecture of the Roman baths**
The Roman baths of Campo Valdés are a complex of several different buildings, including a cold room, a warm room, a hot room, and a swimming pool. The baths were heated by a hypocaust, a system of underfloor heating. The walls of the baths were decorated with frescoes and mosaics, and the floors were paved with marble.
The significance of the Roman baths
The Roman baths of Campo Valdés are a significant example of Roman engineering and architecture. They are one of the best-preserved Roman baths in Spain and provide a valuable glimpse into the lives of the Romans who lived in Gijón. The baths are also a popular tourist attraction and are visited by thousands of people each year.
Practical information for visitors
The Roman baths of Campo Valdés are located in the Campo Valdés Park, in the city of Gijón. The baths are open to the public from Tuesday to Sunday, from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM and from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM. Admission is free.
Church of San Isidoro
The Church of San Isidoro is a Roman Catholic church located in the city of Oviedo, in the autonomous community of Asturias, Spain. It is one of the most important churches in the city and is dedicated to Saint Isidore of Seville, a Spanish bishop and doctor of the Church.
The church was built in the 12th century on the site of a previous church that had been destroyed by fire. The current church is a mixture of Romanesque and Gothic styles. The exterior of the church is characterized by its large buttresses and its rose window. The interior of the church is divided into three naves, which are separated by columns. The church also has a number of chapels, including the Chapel of the Holy Cross, which contains a 14th-century crucifix.
The Church of San Isidoro is a popular tourist destination and is visited by thousands of people each year. The church is also a popular venue for weddings and other events.
Practical Information for Visitors
- The Church of San Isidoro is located in the historic center of Oviedo, near the Plaza de la Catedral.
- The church is open to the public from 9am to 1pm and from 4pm to 7pm.
- Admission to the church is free.
- Guided tours of the church are available in English and Spanish.
- The church is wheelchair accessible.
Museo del Pueblo de Asturias
The Museo del Pueblo de Asturias is a museum dedicated to the history and culture of the Asturian people. The museum is located in Gijón, in a beautiful building that was once a hospital. The museum has a large collection of artifacts, including traditional costumes, tools, and furniture. There are also exhibits on Asturian history, culture, and art.
The Museo del Pueblo de Asturias is a great place to learn about the history and culture of the Asturian people. The museum is well-organized and informative, and the exhibits are interesting and engaging. The museum is also a great place to take children, as there are many interactive exhibits that they will enjoy.
Practical information for visitors:
- The Museo del Pueblo de Asturias is open Tuesday-Sunday from 10:00-14:00 and 16:00-19:00.
- Admission is free.
- The museum is located at Calle de la Huería, 75, 33208 Gijón, Asturias.
- The museum is accessible by bus and car.
- There is a gift shop and a café at the museum.
Plaza Mayor
The Plaza Mayor is the main square in Gijón. It was built in the 19th century on the site of a former convent. The plaza is surrounded by beautiful buildings, including the City Hall, the Palacio Revillagigedo, and the Teatro Jovellanos.
The Plaza Mayor is a popular gathering place for locals and tourists alike. It is home to a number of restaurants, bars, and shops. The plaza also hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including concerts, festivals, and markets.
If you are looking for a place to people-watch, enjoy a coffee, or do some shopping, the Plaza Mayor is the perfect place to go. You can also take a guided tour of the plaza to learn more about its history and architecture.
Insider Tip: If you are visiting Gijón during the summer, be sure to check out the summer concerts in the Plaza Mayor. These concerts are free and feature a variety of local and international artists.
Insider Tip: Discover the Enchanting Cueva del Agua
Step off the beaten path and discover the hidden gem of Gijón, the enchanting Cueva del Agua (Water Cave). This mystical cave is a true natural wonder, boasting a breathtaking underground lake and impressive rock formations. Take a guided tour to unravel the fascinating geological history of the cave and witness the stunning light show that illuminates its crystal-clear waters. Don't miss this opportunity to immerse yourself in the subterranean beauty of Gijón and create lasting memories.
