The Principality of Asturias (El Principado de Asturias)

In the fall of 2023, I (Professor Keith Hulsey) spent the semester on sabbatical leave in Northern Spain immersing myself in the Spanish language and reacquainting myself with what it means to be a second language learner. Aside from the language, I was able to experience daily life and explore the culture and history of the local region, the Principality of Asturias.

Situated along the Costa Verde (Green Coast) on the northern edge of Spain, Asturias is uniquely different from other areas on the Iberian Peninsula geographically, historically, and culturally. You will not find flamenco dancing, bullrings, or the endless vineyards that many commonly associate with Spain. What you will find are bagpipes, apple orchards, and snow capped mountains along with rocky coasts and hidden beaches.

The Principality of Asturias, about 3/4 the size of the state of Connecticut, is home to 1 million people, and is 80% covered by mountains. Gijón, the region’s largest city, has a population of 274,000, which is similar to St. Louis City’s population. Asturias’ capital and second largest city (222,000), Oviedo, is just 18 miles inland from Gijón.

These two cities and the many smaller towns and villages that dot the region are central to Asturias’ history and culture. While there are countless fascinating and important elements that make up the principality’s heritage, I will focus on a few which I found to be intriguing and representative of Asturias. I invite you to explore the links and see for yourself just how amazing the region is.