Learn Spanish in Oviedo, Spain - Spanish language schools in Oviedo, Spain

Oviedo, a university city and the cultural and commercial capital of Asturias, stands on a raised site on a fertile plain. The nearby coal mines have made it an important industrial centre since the 19th century. It retains some of the atmosphere of that time, as described by Leopoldo Alas ("Clarín") in his great novel La Regenta. In and around Oviedo are many Pre-Romanesque buildings. This style flourished in the 8th-10th centuries and was confined to a small area of the kingdom of Asturias, one of the few enclaves of Spain not invaded by the Moors.

The nucleus of the medieval city is the stately Plaza Alfonso II, bordered by a number of handsome old palaces. On this square is situated the Flamboyant Gothic cathedral with its high tower and asymmetrical west façade. Inside are tombs of Asturian kings and a majestic gilded reredos. The cathedral's supreme treasure is the Cámara Santa, a restored 9th century chapel containing statues of Christ and the apostles. The chapel also houses many works of 9th century Asturian art including two crosses and a reliquary - all made of gold, silver and precious stones.

Also situated in the Plaza Alfonso II is the Iglesia de San Tirso. This church was originally constructed in the 9th century, but subsequent restorations have left the east window as the only surviving Pre-Romanesque feature. Sited immediately behind the cathedral is the Museo Arqueológico, which is housed in an old monastery with fine cloisters. It contains local prehistoric, Roman and Romanesque treasures. The Museo de Bellas Artes, in the handsome 18th century Velarde Palace, has a good range of Asturian and Spanish paintings, such as Carreño's portrait of Carlos II.