Hi, “caleyante”!
Do you want to know a little bit about the history of Asturias?
Asturias is an autonomous community in northern Spain with just over one million inhabitants, administratively divided into 78 municipalities. Nearly half of the population is concentrated in its three main cities: Gijón, Oviedo, and Avilés. The region is distinguished by the close proximity between the sea and the mountains, as well as by its rich natural environment and renowned gastronomy, which together make it an attractive destination for visitors.
DINOSAURS AND PREHISTORY
Human presence in Asturias dates back to prehistoric times. The territory preserves significant archaeological evidence, including Jurassic fossil remains and dinosaur footprints, as well as Paleolithic cave art such as that found in Tito Bustillo. Before Roman domination, the area was inhabited by the Astures, who strongly resisted conquest until their incorporation into the Roman Empire in 19 BC.
MIDDLE AGES
In the early Middle Ages, following the Muslim expansion across the Iberian Peninsula, the Kingdom of Asturias emerged in the 8th century, traditionally linked to the Battle of Covadonga and the figure of Pelayo. The capital later moved from Cangas de Onís to Oviedo, where Asturian Pre-Romanesque art flourished—now recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site—and where the earliest route of the Camino de Santiago, known as the Primitive Way, developed.
The Kingdom of Asturias came to an end in 910 when it merged with the Kingdom of León. In 1388, the title of Prince of Asturias was created for the heir to the Spanish Crown, a designation that remains in use today.
ENLIGHTENMENT AND COAL
During the 18th and 19th centuries, Asturias experienced important cultural and economic transformations, influenced by Enlightenment thinkers such as Gaspar Melchor de Jovellanos and by the discovery of coal. These developments led to industrialization, particularly in mining and steel production, and to the expansion of transport infrastructur
NOWADAYS
The 20th century was marked by strong labor movements and industrial growth, followed by a period of decline after Spain’s entry into the European Union, which brought mine closures and economic restructuring. Although this transition remains incomplete, sustainable tourism has emerged as a key sector for the region’s future.
If you visit the Vente a “Caleyar” Responsibility Decalogue, you will find examples of how to put good practices into action.
So, join the Asturias excursions with Vente a “Caleyar”, enjoy the experience while learning about our history, and help me take care of this beautiful environment!