Civil War Tour of Oviedo

If you’re curious about Spain’s more recent past, the Civil War Tour of Oviedo offers a compelling glimpse into a period marked by destruction, resilience, and scars still visible today. This 1.5-hour guided walk takes you through the streets that witnessed some of the fiercest fighting during the conflict between July 1936 and October 1937, revealing stories of heroism, tragedy, and repression.

What makes this tour stand out? First, you get to see real physical traces of the war, like shells still embedded in buildings. Second, the guide, Denis Soria — a historian and official guide — combines expertise with a genuine passion for sharing Oviedo’s recent history. Third, it offers meaningful insight into the consequences of the siege and Franco’s repression that shaped the city long after the guns fell silent.

The main consideration? The tour is entirely on foot and in Spanish, so non-Spanish speakers might want to bring a translation app or look for an alternative if language is a barrier. It’s best suited for those interested in history with a focus on local stories, and who appreciate authentic, tangible remnants of the past rather than just a broad overview.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Walk through Oviedo’s streets and see shells still embedded in facades, signs of the brutal fighting.
• Expert Guide: Led by Denis Soria, a historian who offers rigorous and objective insights into the conflict.
• Historical Landmarks: Visit key sites like the Santa Clara barracks and the civil government headquarters.
• Visual Remnants: Witness the cannon fire damage still visible on the cathedral tower.
• Storytelling of Repression: Learn about the tragic aftermath, including victims like Leopoldo Alas.
• Flexible & Practical: The tour lasts 1.5 hours; check local availability to plan accordingly.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Civil War Tour of Oviedo

Setting the Scene: The Beginning of the Conflict

Starting in front of the Reconquista Hotel, the tour kicks off with an overview of the military conspiracy led by Colonel Aranda, which was a critical spark in Oviedo’s civil war. As you stroll, Denis Soria unpacks the complex web of politics and military strategies that led to the uprising. It’s a reminder that Oviedo was not just a passive witness but an active battleground from the very start.

Visiting the First Battles

Next, the tour takes you to the scenes of early clashes such as the assault on the civil government headquarters and the Santa Clara barracks. These sites are more than just landmarks—they are symbols of the initial fight for control, and standing there, you almost hear echoes of the chaos. The guide’s detailed narration helps you understand the strategic significance of each location, making history come alive.

The Northern Front and the City’s Siege

One of the most striking parts of the tour is seeing the marks of the bombings and fighting that scar Oviedo’s buildings. Still lodged in facades, unexploded shells serve as silent witnesses to nearly 15 months of conflict. Denis explains how the city’s infrastructure was decimated, with only about thirty buildings standing intact after heavy shelling. It’s a sobering visual reminder of the war’s destructive power.

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The Role of Key Figures

Throughout the walk, you’ll learn about important personalities, like Lieutenant Colonel Teijeiro, who played a pivotal role in breaking the siege. These stories add depth, helping you understand the human side of the conflict beyond just the military tactics.

The Aftermath and Franco’s Repression

The tour culminates at the mutilated tower of Oviedo’s cathedral, scarred by cannon fire. Here, Denis discusses the victims of Republican bombings and the repression that followed, including the tragic death of notable local figures, like Leopoldo Alas. This section emphasizes the lasting impact of the war on Oviedo’s community and memory.

Authentic and Visible Evidence

What sets this tour apart? Its focus on visible remnants—like shells in the walls and the damage on historic buildings—offers an authentic, tangible connection to the conflict. As noted by a reviewer, “Sabe de lo que habla y no se le escapa ningún detalle,” meaning the guide’s rigorous knowledge ensures a thorough understanding.

Practical Details and Value

• Duration: 1.5 hours, making it a manageable addition to your day without feeling rushed.
• Guide: An official, accredited historian who speaks Spanish — perfect for those who understand the language.
• Cost: The tour’s price is reasonable considering the depth of insight and access to sites that are not often part of typical city walks.
• Availability: Check local schedules, as starting times vary, and availability can fluctuate.

What’s Not Included

Transportation and entrance fees aren’t covered, so plan accordingly if you want to add visits to specific museums or transport around the city. The walking aspect is manageable, but comfortable shoes are recommended given the historic streets and potential uneven surfaces.

Reviews and Authentic Praise

Based on feedback, one traveler praised Denis’s detailed and objective approach, remarking: “Se nota cuando una visita es completamente original y Denis, nuestro guía, es un historiador que te acerca con rigor y objetividad al pasado reciente.” This highlights how important expert guides are in bringing history to life meaningfully.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This history-focused walk will appeal most to travelers with a keen interest in 20th-century Spanish history, especially the Civil War. It’s suitable for those comfortable with Spanish, as the tour is not offered in other languages, and for visitors wanting a meaningful, physical connection to the city’s past. It’s not ideal for very young children or those with mobility issues, given the walking and site-specific nature.

The Sum Up

The Civil War Tour of Oviedo provides an immersive, authentic experience for anyone eager to understand the city’s recent past through its scars and stories. Led by a knowledgeable and passionate guide, it offers a vivid perspective beyond textbooks, showing how history is still etched into the very streets of Oviedo.

If you prefer a tour with tangible remnants, detailed storytelling, and an intimate look at a pivotal chapter in Spanish history, this walk is well worth your time. It’s especially suited for history buffs, curious travelers, and those wanting to connect emotionally with Oviedo’s resilience. For a city rich in stories and signs of conflict, this tour offers a rare and meaningful window into the past.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for non-Spanish speakers?
The tour is conducted in Spanish, so non-Spanish speakers might need translation tools or a guided tour in another language, if available.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts about 1.5 hours, making it a compact yet comprehensive way to explore Oviedo’s Civil War history.

Are transportation and entrance fees included?
No, these are not included. You should plan to cover your own transportation and any additional entrance costs if you choose to visit further sites.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, as the tour involves street walking and possibly uneven surfaces.

Can children join the tour?
While there’s no specific age restriction, the tour is best suited for older children and adults interested in history. Babies under 1 year are not allowed.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if plans change.

Is the guide knowledgeable?
Absolutely. Denis Soria is an accredited historian who provides detailed, objective insights, ensuring you leave with a solid understanding of Oviedo’s Civil War history.

You can check availability for your dates here: