Oviedo Cathedral
Asturias, Principado de
Oviedo Cathedral, officially the Metropolitan Basilica Cathedral of San Salvador de Oviedo, is a stunning Gothic-style cathedral located in the city of Oviedo, Asturias, Spain. Construction began in the late 13th century and continued over three centuries, culminating in the mid-16th century with the completion of its tower. The cathedral incorporates multiple architectural styles due to its prolonged construction period, including pre-Romanesque elements from the 9th-century Cámara Santa, Romanesque vaults, Gothic facades and cloisters, Renaissance tower ornamentation, and Baroque chapels. The Cámara Santa, a UNESCO World Heritage site, houses some of the cathedral's most treasured relics such as the Cross of Victory and the Holy Shroud. The cathedral stands on the site of an earlier 9th-century pre-Romanesque church built by King Fruela I, marking Oviedo's importance as a religious and political center during the Asturian kingdom. Its historical significance is further emphasized by its role in the early pilgrimage routes to Santiago de Compostela. Oviedo Cathedral remains a vital cultural and spiritual landmark, reflecting centuries of Asturian history and architectural evolution.
Planifiez votre voyage en Espagne avec l'IA
Créez un itinéraire détaillé en quelques minutes. L'IA suggère les meilleurs endroits, restaurants et un itinéraire optimisé.
Astuce: Visitors are advised to check the cathedral's official website for opening hours and guided tour availability. The best time to visit is during weekday mornings to avoid crowds. Booking tickets in advance is recommended, especially during pilgrimage seasons or religious festivals. Discounts may be available for students, seniors, and groups. Comfortable footwear is suggested due to the cathedral's size and the variety of areas to explore, including the Cámara Santa and cloisters.
Faits intéressants
- •The Cámara Santa of Oviedo Cathedral is a UNESCO World Heritage site and houses the Cross of Victory and the Holy Shroud, some of Asturias' most precious relics.
- •The cathedral's construction spanned approximately three centuries, resulting in a unique blend of pre-Romanesque, Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architectural styles.
- •Oviedo Cathedral is known as 'Sancta Ovetensis' due to the quality and quantity of its religious relics.
- •The cathedral was built on the site of an earlier 9th-century basilica commissioned by King Fruela I, marking Oviedo’s importance as a religious center in medieval Spain.
Histoire
The origins of Oviedo Cathedral date back to the 9th century when King Fruela I commissioned a basilica dedicated to San Salvador on the current site.
This early pre-Romanesque church was partially destroyed during a Muslim incursion in 794.
Later, King Alfonso II the Chaste established Oviedo as the capital of the Asturian kingdom and expanded the religious complex, including the construction of several churches and a royal palace.
The current Gothic cathedral began construction in the late 13th century, replacing earlier structures, and was built over three centuries, incorporating various architectural styles as it evolved.
The Cámara Santa, part of the original pre-Romanesque complex, has been preserved and is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site for its cultural and religious significance.
Guide du lieu
Cámara Santa9th century
The Holy Chamber dating from the 9th century, this pre-Romanesque chapel is the cathedral's most sacred part, housing invaluable relics such as the Cross of Victory, the Cross of the Angels, the Agate Box, and the Holy Shroud. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a highlight for visitors interested in medieval religious artifacts.
Gothic Facade and NaveLate 13th to mid-16th century
The main Gothic elements of the cathedral, including the facade and the nave, were constructed between the 13th and 16th centuries. These areas showcase pointed arches, ribbed vaults, and flying buttresses typical of Gothic architecture, reflecting the evolving styles over centuries of construction.
Cloister and Chapter HouseLate 13th century
Constructed at the beginning of the cathedral’s building phase, the cloister and chapter house exhibit Gothic architectural features and served as important spaces for ecclesiastical meetings and monastic life.
Baroque Chapels and Girola17th century
Added in the 17th century, the Baroque chapels and the ambulatory (girola) expanded the cathedral’s capacity and decorative richness, featuring elaborate altarpieces and ornamental details typical of the Baroque period.
Contact
Téléphone: 614 49 08 11
