Cangas de Onís
Country: Spain
Region: Europe
Period: 718-791CE
Location: 43.35°N, -5.133333°E
Description
Cangas de Onís is a historic town in the Asturias region of northern Spain, known for its scenic beauty and historical significance. It was the first capital of the Kingdom of Asturias after the Reconquista in the 8th century. The town is famous for the Roman Bridge (Puente Romano), which crosses the Sella River, and its proximity to the Picos de Europa mountains. Cangas de Onís is a popular base for exploring the natural beauty of the region, including the Covadonga Sanctuary and the Covadonga Lakes, important sites in the history of Spain’s Christian reconquest.
Modern Remains
Today, Cangas de Onís preserves its historical charm with landmarks like the Roman Bridge, which, despite its name, dates back to medieval times. The Chapel of Santa Cruz, originally built in 737, houses a prehistoric dolmen, showcasing the region's ancient past. The town serves as a base for visitors exploring Covadonga, the Picos de Europa National Park, and experiencing traditional Asturian culture.