The Siege of Oviedo – The Civil War in the city of Oviedo

Travel to Oviedo and uncover a lesser-known chapter of Spain’s turbulent past through an engaging, well-structured tour focusing on the city’s experience during the Spanish Civil War. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply curious about Spain’s complex history, this guided experience offers a compelling look at how Oviedo endured months of siege, bombing, and rationing.

What makes this tour stand out? We love its focus on tangible, visible remnants of wartime, giving visitors a real connection to the past. The knowledgeable and friendly guide, as praised in reviews, adds depth with clear explanations, even for those with limited Spanish. The tour’s compact 1.5-hour format makes it a manageable addition to your Oviedo itinerary, while still packing in meaningful insights.

One thing to consider: since the tour is primarily in Spanish, those with very limited language skills might find it challenging. However, many guides are able to clarify points in English if needed. This tour is best suited for history buffs, families interested in local history, or travelers wanting a deeper understanding of Oviedo’s WWII-era scars.

You’ll love exploring significant sites like the former Convent of Santa Clara, the Civil Government building, and the University, all steeped in wartime stories. Plus, the chance to stand where civilians lived through months of hardship makes this experience uniquely authentic.

Key Points

• Historical Focus: Learn about the key scenes and military routes of the Spanish Civil War in Oviedo.
• Visible Traces: Discover the remnants of wartime that are still visible today.
• Authentic Experience: Relive how civilians endured siege, bombing, and rationing.
• Expert Guide: An accredited historian leads the tour, making history accessible.
• Short & Sweet: A 1.5-hour activity that fits easily into your travel schedule.
• Wheelchair Friendly: The tour is accessible, allowing more visitors to participate.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Oviedo’s Civil War Through the Tour

This guided journey through Oviedo offers a rare chance to piece together the city’s wartime story while walking through its streets. It’s not just about facts; it’s about understanding the impact of war on a community and seeing evidence of those days still etched into the landscape.

Starting Point: The Convent of Santa Clara

The tour kicks off behind the charming Campoamor Theater, at the site of the former Convent of Santa Clara, which served as the headquarters of the Assault Guard during the conflict. The guide, carrying a distinctive blue umbrella, sets the scene with stories about the city’s strategic importance and how this place became a nerve center amid chaos.

From here, expect to walk to several significant locations, each with its own wartime tale. The guide’s expertise ensures you get a clear picture of what life was like for Oviedo’s residents under siege. As one reviewer noted, the presentation is “very good and keeps your attention”—a relief in a city full of history.

The Casas de Chorín and Civil Government Building

Next stops include the Casas de Chorín and the Civil Government building. These sites are more than just buildings; they are witnesses to the city’s wartime struggles. The Civil Government building, in particular, offers insight into how the city’s civil authority functioned during the siege, and how authority was maintained amidst chaos.

Walking through these areas, you’ll see visible traces of the conflict—perhaps bullet holes in walls or marks on historical facades—that help bring the story to life. Many visitors find it fascinating to see how “the residents coped with the hardships,” including food rationing and constant threat of bombings.

The University and Military Routes

The tour continues at the University of Oviedo, a site that, like others, bears scars from wartime activity. The guide explains the military routes promoted by Franco’s government in 1938, shedding light on strategic movements and how the city was a key player in the Northern Campaign.

This part of the tour offers a vivid picture of how the conflict shaped not just the city but the entire region. It’s a chance to stand where history happened and imagine the resilience of those who endured it.

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How Civilians Lived Under War

Beyond sites, the tour emphasizes daily life during the siege. The guide shares stories about bombing raids, rationing, and community resilience, helping visitors understand the human side of history. The sense of suspense and hardship is palpable, making it more than just a sightseeing trip.

Authenticity and Accessibility

What’s especially praised in reviews is how the guide clarifies points in perfect English if needed, making the story accessible even to non-Spanish speakers. The tour is wheelchair accessible, allowing more visitors to experience this piece of history.

Value and Practicalities

This tour lasts about 1.5 hours, making it a perfect quick but meaningful addition to your Oviedo day. The cost isn’t specified here, but considering the focus on expert guidance and authentic sites, it offers good value for history lovers.

The meeting point is conveniently located at the side of the Campoamor Theater, marked by the guide with a blue umbrella. It ends back at the starting point, so it’s easy to incorporate into a broader sightseeing plan.

What’s Included?

• An accredited official tour guide and historian, ensuring accurate and engaging storytelling.

Flexibility and Cancellation

Booking is flexible—you can reserve now and pay later, with full refund available if you cancel more than 24 hours in advance. That makes it a risk-free option if your plans change.

Additional Notes

Recording videos or audio isn’t allowed, which encourages full attention during the story sharing. The tour is conducted primarily in Spanish, but as mentioned, guides are happy to clarify points for non-Spanish speakers.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers an intimate glimpse into Oviedo’s wartime history, connecting you with physical sites and stories that could otherwise remain distant. It’s especially valuable for those interested in the human side of history, seeing the tangible effects of war still visible today.

If you’re seeking a tour that combines history, authentic sites, and accessible storytelling, this is a fantastic choice. It’s ideal for travelers who want a concise yet rich experience, fitting comfortably into a broader exploration of Oviedo or Asturias.

While it’s not a broad city tour, its focus on the siege and wartime experience provides a meaningful perspective that rounds out the city’s cultural narrative. Plus, the praise from past visitors highlights its engaging, informative style—making it a worthwhile addition to your Oviedo adventures.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The activity lasts about 1.5 hours, making it a brief but intense deep dive into Oviedo’s wartime past.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins on the side of the Campoamor Theater, with the guide marked by a blue umbrella, and returns to the same point.

Is the tour suitable for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible.

In what language is the tour conducted?
The main language is Spanish, but guides are able to clarify points in English if needed.

Can I cancel my reservation?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is recording allowed during the tour?
Video and audio recording are not permitted to ensure full engagement during the storytelling.

What sites will we visit?
You’ll see the Convent of Santa Clara, Casas de Chorín, the Civil Government building, and the University of Oviedo, among others.

What makes this tour valuable?
It combines expert guidance with tangible wartime remnants, offering insights that are both educational and emotionally impactful.

Who would enjoy this tour most?
History enthusiasts, students, families, and anyone curious about Spain’s Civil War history will find it rewarding.

What should I keep in mind?
Expect a focus on wartime stories and visible traces of conflict; limited English support means some understanding of Spanish helps.

This tour uncovers a compelling part of Oviedo’s past, allowing visitors to walk through history while gaining a deeper appreciation of the city’s resilience. Whether you’re keen on history, love exploring authentic sites, or want to see how a city coped with wartime hardship, this experience offers meaningful insight wrapped in a manageable timeframe.

You can check availability for your dates here: