The Principality of Asturias (El Principado de Asturias)

Before the Romans dominated Spain in the 1st through 3rd centuries BCE, the local inhabitants of Asturias and neighboring Galicia were part of Celtic culture. Roman contact brought many changes in culture and language to Spain, but the people of Asturias still have connections to their Celtic ancestry through myths and stories as well as musical traditions like the gaita (bagpipes). Though Asturians no longer speak a Celtic language, they celebrate and share pride in their Celtic heritage.

Gaitas bands performing in Oviedo and Gijon

The large-scale emigration from Asturias to the Americas from the mid-19th century to the mid-20th century changed the population structure of rural Asturias which saw the departure of many of its young people. After making their fortunes in the Americas, many returned and played a role in shaping Asturian communities, helping them to modernize the region as they invested in public works projects. These returnees were called “Indianos” locally. Many Indianos displayed their wealth by building large extravagant houses in various communities around the region.

Monumento a la Madre del emigrante (Monument to the Mother of the Emigrant) is a statue located on the promenade to the east of San Lorenzo Beach in Gijón.

The longing and emotion of the mother as she awaits the return of her child are key elements of this work by artist Ramón Muriedas Mazorra.

Examples of the fine homes built in the area by returning “Indianos” of Asturias. In Colombres.

Colunga, Asturias

Llanes, Asturias

Throughout Spain, viticulture and wine production play important roles, but in Asturias, apples, not grapes, are the main focus. The production and consumption of sidra (cider) are very important parts of life in Asturias. Sidrerías, or cider bars, can be found everywhere in Asturias and are a regular part of daily life for many Asturians.

Apple orchards along the Camino Primitivo in Asturias

The ubiquitous green sidra bottle is a common site in Asturias.

Sidra bottle tower in Cimadevilla, Gijón

Champion Escanciador (cider pourer) Salvador Ondo at work. Pouring cider from a great height allows for carbonation of the drink which is said to release more flavor. Pouring in such a manner is considered an art for drinkers of Asturian cider.

Waiters are practicing prior to the lunch rush in Oviedo.

Gijón lunch time pourer

Sidra bottle tower