Santa María del Naranco
Rising above Oviedo on Monte Naranco, northwest of the city center, this church is one of the most famous examples of Asturian pre–Romanesque architecture. Originally a 9th–century palace and hunting lodge of Ramiro I, it was converted into a church in the 12th century. Its intricate stonework depicts hunting scenes, and barrel vaulting rests on a network of blind arches. The open porticoes at both ends were architecturally 200 years ahead of their time.
About 90m (295 ft.) uphill, the small stone church of San Miguel de Lillo was also built by Ramiro I, originally as a royal chapel. It was no doubt a magnificent specimen of Asturian pre–Romanesque architecture until 15th–century architects marred its grace. The stone carvings that remain, however, are exemplary (most of the sculptures have been transferred to the archaeological museum in town).
The tourist office can give you a map of a walking route up Monte Naranco; your payoff will be sweeping views of Oviedo and the distant snowcapped Picos de Europa.
Rising above Oviedo on Monte Naranco, northwest of the city center, this church is one of the most famous examples of Asturian pre–Romanesque architecture. Originally a 9th–century palace and hunting lodge of Ramiro I, it was converted into a church in the 12th century. Its intricate stonework depicts hunting scenes, and barrel vaulting rests on a network of blind arches. The open porticoes at both ends were architecturally 200 years ahead of their time.
About 90m (295 ft.) uphill, the small stone church of San Miguel de Lillo was also built by Ramiro I, originally as a royal chapel. It was no doubt a magnificent specimen of Asturian pre–Romanesque architecture until 15th–century architects marred its grace. The stone carvings that remain, however, are exemplary (most of the sculptures have been transferred to the archaeological museum in town).
The tourist office can give you a map of a walking route up Monte Naranco; your payoff will be sweeping views of Oviedo and the distant snowcapped Picos de Europa.
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