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Oviedo History, Spain

Located in Asturias, a principality found in northern Spain, Oviedo serves as the central city of the region. Known for its lush buildings which date back to the early centuries, these constructions are witnesses and proof of the colorful Oviedo History.

Oviedo History – Discovery

Although archaeological excavations show that there were settlements in Oviedo during the first century, it is assumed that the city was founded by Maximo and Fromestanus, two monks, in the 761 AD. Following this discovery was the expansion of the settlement and construction of a small church in honor of Saint Vincent.

Oviedo History – The Reign of the Great Asturian Kings

The reign of the 4th Asturian king Fruela I brought about the building of a palace and a church in Oviedo. However, it was not until the rule of Alfonso II, also known as the Chaste, that Oviedo became the capital city and the ruling seat of the Asturian monarchy. It was also during this era that the Pilgrim’s Route to Santiago de Compostela was constructed. Other structures built in Oviedo when Alfonso II reigned are a church in honor of The Saviour, the Cathedral of San Salvador, and a royal castle which became the symbol of power of the city of Oviedo. Ramiro I of Aturias continued the legacy of the kings before him. Oviedo experienced more constructions of unique architectural structures during his time.

Oviedo History – Building of a City

Oviedo experienced many establishments from the 12th to the 16th centuries. The city developed into a medieval metropolis with the building of city walls to protect the area and the aqueduct works named Los Pilares which provided Oviedo with water through the course of the 16th century.

Another milestone highlighted the city of Oviedo in the 17th century when Fernando de Valdes Salas founded the Arts College also known as the University of Oviedo. This event opened the city to a progressive metropolitan development.

During the onset of the 18th century construction of significant palaces were done through the authority of the regional nobility. Oviedo also experienced industrial growth in the 19th century and its main street Uria was expanded. By the dawn of the 20th century, the city was ready for an administrative and commercial expansion.

Oviedo History – Spanish Civil War

The city of Oviedo did not escape the cruelty of the Spanish Civil War. In 1936, the city was under siege. The army of the city supported the coup d’ẻtat and fought against a group of Republican loyalists for three months.

Today, Oviedo is famous for being the host city of the celebrated yearly Prince of Asturias Awards which recognizes the talent and skills of personalities in the international scene. Winners of this award include Bob Dylan and Al Gore. Apart from this, many students from all over the globe go to the city just to enroll at the Oviedo University.

All these events in Oviedo History transformed it to what it is now. For a greater background of Spanish History, much help will be obtained through the Bilbao Travel Guide and the Zaragoza Travel Guide.

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