Civil War Tour of Oviedo

Civil War Tour of Oviedo

If you’re interested in understanding Spain’s complex history through the lens of its recent conflicts, the Civil War Tour of Oviedo offers a compelling glimpse into the city’s wartime past. Led by a knowledgeable guide, this 1.5-hour walk takes you through historical sites, visible scars of battle, and stories of repression that shaped the city and its people.

What makes this tour stand out? First, it’s the authenticity—many of the battle marks and shells embedded in buildings are still visible, providing a visceral connection to the past. Second, the guide, Denis Soria, brings a mix of rigor and passion that makes history feel alive. Third, the stories of victims and repression add depth and emotional resonance to the experience.

A potential consideration is the focus on detailed historical and wartime sites, which might feel intense for travelers seeking a lighter or more general city tour. However, if history, especially the Civil War, resonates with you, this tour is a must. It’s best suited for visitors who enjoy immersive storytelling and aren’t afraid to confront some of Spain’s darker recent episodes.

This experience is ideal for history enthusiasts, anyone interested in the Civil War, or travelers who want a meaningful, educational walk through Oviedo’s streets. Be prepared for a serious look at the city’s past, but also for an eye-opening perspective that many overlook in typical sightseeing.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Good To Know

• Authentic Battle Scars: See shells still embedded in buildings, remnants of the fighting.
• Expert Guide: Led by Denis Soria, a historian who shares detailed, objective insights.
• Historical Focus: Learn about the conspiracy, battles, and the aftermath of the war.
• Emotional Stories: Discover the victims of repression, including notable figures.
• Concise Duration: Perfect for those looking for an in-depth but brief historical overview.
• Cost-Effective: Provides a meaningful experience without an exorbitant price.

The Itinerary and What You Can Expect

Starting Point: Reconquista Hotel

The tour kicks off in front of the Reconquista Hotel, a central landmark familiar to many visitors. This location sets the tone for a walk through Oviedo’s streets, and from here, the guide begins unpacking the city’s role in the Civil War.

The Military Conspiracy of Aranda

One of the tour’s first stops dives into the conspiracy hatched by Colonel Aranda against the Republican government. You’ll learn about the political climate leading up to July 1936, giving you context on why the conflict ignited. It’s a behind-the-scenes look that adds layers to the city’s wartime story.

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First Battles and Strategic Sites

Next, the tour takes you to key locations such as the site of the attack on the civil government headquarters and the Santa Clara barracks. Here, you get a sense of the initial clashes and how Oviedo became a battleground early in the war.

The Northern Front and Oviedo’s Siege

The tour continues along the path of the Northern Front, which saw Oviedo encircled and heavily bombed. You’ll hear about Lieutenant Colonel Teijeiro, a figure credited with helping break the siege, highlighting the city’s resilience. The guide explains how the fighting left tangible scars, including shells lodged in the facades of buildings.

Visible Battle Wounds

This part of the journey is visually striking—many buildings still have shells embedded in their walls, silent witnesses to 15 months of conflict. The fact that only about thirty structures remained intact after the destruction underscores the brutality of the siege.

The Fall of Oviedo and Its Aftermath

The tour’s climax is at the tower of the Oviedo Cathedral, visibly damaged by cannon fire. Here, the guide discusses the victims of the Republican bombings and the repression under Franco’s regime, including notable figures like Leopoldo Alas. This emotional ending encourages visitors to reflect on the human toll of war.

The Experience and Guide

Denis Soria, the official guide from SER ASTURIANU, brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to the walk. Based on reviews, he approaches the story with rigor and objectivity, making complex events understandable and engaging. His familiarity with the details ensures that no important fact escapes mention.

The tour lasts roughly 1.5 hours, making it an accessible option for travelers with limited time. While transportation and entrance fees are not included, the focus on walking through the city’s streets makes this a cost-effective way to explore Oviedo’s recent history. Since the guide is Spanish-speaking, it’s best suited for those comfortable with the language, although a keen interest in history can compensate.

The Value and Who It’s For

This Civil War tour provides a deep, honest look at Oviedo’s wartime scars and the human stories behind them. It’s perfect for history buffs eager to see real battle remnants and learn about the city’s pivotal moments. The experience’s brevity, around 1.5 hours, suits travelers wanting a focused, enriching activity without committing to lengthy visits.

The tour’s emphasis on visible scars—such as shells still lodged in walls—gives it a tangible quality that photos and books can’t match. It’s an immersive way to understand the destruction and resilience of Oviedo during one of Spain’s most turbulent periods.

While not geared toward children under one or elderly over 95, the tour offers a balanced mix of education and reflection suitable for most adults, especially those interested in military history, political upheaval, or human stories of repression.

FAQs

• Is transportation included? No, transportation and entrance fees are not included; the tour is primarily walking-based.

• What language is the tour conducted in? The tour is in Spanish, led by an accredited guide.

• How long does the tour last? Approximately 1.5 hours, making it a quick but thorough historical walk.

• Can I cancel the tour? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

• Is this suitable for children? The tour is best suited for adults interested in history; it’s not recommended for babies under 1 year or those over 95.

• What do I see during the tour? You’ll visit key sites like the civil government headquarters, Santa Clara barracks, and the Oviedo Cathedral, with a focus on battle scars and historical stories.

• Is the guide knowledgeable? Yes, Denis Soria is a historian and official guide known for delivering detailed, objective accounts.

• Are there any emotional moments? Yes, the stories of repression and victims may be emotionally impactful.

• Can I book last minute? Yes, you can reserve now and pay later, providing flexibility for your travel plans.

• What should I bring? Comfortable walking shoes, a curiosity for history, and perhaps a camera to capture battle scars.

Final Thoughts

The Civil War Tour of Oviedo offers a rare opportunity to connect with the city’s recent past through its surviving battle scars and compelling stories. Led by a passionate historian, this experience provides a balanced mix of visual remnants and insights that will appeal to those eager to understand the impact of the Civil War on Oviedo’s landscape and its people.

It’s an excellent choice for history enthusiasts and travelers who want a meaningful, authentic look at an often-overlooked chapter of Spain’s history. The focus on tangible evidence—shells embedded in buildings and sites of key battles—makes this tour more than just a walk; it’s a chance to see the scars of war firsthand.

For anyone interested in Spain’s complex history or seeking a thought-provoking activity, this tour offers real value, deep storytelling, and a chance to walk through Oviedo’s most poignant moments. It’s a sobering yet enlightening journey that will leave you with a better understanding of the city’s resilience and the human stories behind its scars.

You can check if your dates are available here: