Archbishop's Palace Oviedo
Historic Archbishop's Palace in Oviedo, offering a serene atmosphere and stunning Cathedral tower views from its courtyard.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Archbishop's Palace Oviedo
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic Archbishop's Palace in Oviedo, offering a serene atmosphere and stunning Cathedral tower views from its courtyard.
"A place where one can breathe peace, tranquility, calm... architecturally sober but with a style in keeping with the complex."
✨ Seek Tranquility
Breathe in the peace and calm of this administrative heart of the Archdiocese. :pray:
📸 Cathedral Views
The interior courtyard offers a unique perspective of the Cathedral tower. :camerawithflash:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Interior Courtyard
Central courtyard
Admire the Tuscan columns and the stunning perspective of the Cathedral tower.
Baroque Altarpiece
Chapel
A beautifully preserved 18th-century Baroque altarpiece adds a touch of grandeur.

Architectural Details
Facades
Note the historical coats of arms and architectural elements from various periods.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating Access and Tours
Understanding its Role
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Itinerary Question (Oviedo or not?)
✨ Seek Tranquility
Breathe in the peace and calm of this administrative heart of the Archdiocese.
:pray:📸 Cathedral Views
The interior courtyard offers a unique perspective of the Cathedral tower.
:camerawithflash:Traveling to Oviedo, Spain
Looking for help in figuring out what to do and see in Northern Spain
🧐 Historical Insights
Explore architectural details and coats of arms from different eras.
:scroll:🚶♀️ Explore Surroundings
The palace is part of a complex near the Cathedral, worth exploring.
:walking:Gijón, Oviedo, or someplace else to stay in Asturias? - Holiday to Spain
Tips
from all over the internet
✨ Seek Tranquility
Breathe in the peace and calm of this administrative heart of the Archdiocese.
:pray:📸 Cathedral Views
The interior courtyard offers a unique perspective of the Cathedral tower.
:camerawithflash:🧐 Historical Insights
Explore architectural details and coats of arms from different eras.
:scroll:🚶♀️ Explore Surroundings
The palace is part of a complex near the Cathedral, worth exploring.
:walking:What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Archbishop's Palace to be a place of peace and architectural sobriety, offering beautiful views of the Cathedral tower from its courtyard. While it's an administrative building, its historical significance and serene atmosphere are appreciated. Some find access and inquiry processes to be complex, with suggestions of paid research assistance.
"Episcopal Palace (16th century), in Corrada del Obispo Square, in Oviedo (Asturias). The previous building - of which some Romanesque openings are preserved - was razed in the fire that destroyed part of the city of Oviedo in 1522. Burned during the revolutionary events of October 1934. Rebuilt (1942), modifying the east façade - although maintaining the main entrance with a large door and episcopal coat of arms under a projecting balcony with ironwork, a cross of angels, the coats of arms of King Philip II of Spain, the chapter and Bishop Don Diego Aponte Quiñones (1585-98), the promoter. The south façade, on Canóniga Street, preceded by a garden with a well, bears the coat of arms of Bishop Don Juan García Avello Castrillón (1730-44); Promoter of the Transit of Santa Barbara (1734), arch with a gallery that connects the north façade with the cathedral. Central courtyard with Tuscan columns, renovated by Bishop Ramón Martínez Vigil (1884-1904), based on an original from the time of Bishops Juan Daza (1498-1502) and Diego de Muros (1512-26). Chapel with Baroque altarpiece (18th century). Archbishop's residence, diocesan offices and historical archive."
Ladelamanofurada
"Religious building in the area surrounding the cathedral"
Pablo Gerbolés
"Very interesting. It works very differently than before. With the new rules, it's worth hiring a volunteer who will search on your behalf for a private fee. It's difficult to do it yourself and the new management, even if you know how.
I agree with the latest reviews; it's not like it was in the days of Rev. Sr. Vallina. It depends on who you are, how you're treated.
Is it worth paying a researcher, or is that what they're pushing for?"
Falo BravoMontoya
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Archbishop's Palace is located in Corrada del Obispo Square, in Oviedo, Asturias. It's situated in the area surrounding the Cathedral, making it easily accessible on foot if you are already exploring the city center. Public transport options to the city center are readily available.
Parking in the historic center of Oviedo can be challenging. It's recommended to use public parking garages located a short walk from the palace, such as the Parking Plaza de la Escandalera or Parking Campoamor.
Yes, the Archbishop's Palace is adjacent to the Cathedral of Oviedo. You can easily walk between the two landmarks, as they form part of the same historical complex.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The Archbishop's Palace primarily functions as an administrative building and residence. While some areas are accessible, specific entry requirements or tour availability can vary. It's advisable to check for any guided tours or specific visiting hours beforehand.
As an active administrative and residential building, the Archbishop's Palace does not have standard public opening hours like a museum. Access to certain areas might be restricted or require specific arrangements.
There is typically no direct entrance fee for general access to the Archbishop's Palace, as it's not a traditional tourist attraction. However, if specific tours or access to certain archives are offered, there might be associated costs.
The historical archive is housed within the palace. Access to the archive may be restricted to researchers or require special permission and arrangements. Inquiries about accessing the archive should be directed to the Archdiocese of Oviedo.
Information on guided tours can be inconsistent. Some reviews suggest hiring a volunteer researcher for private fees for specific inquiries, while others imply general access to certain areas. It's best to contact the Archdiocese of Oviedo directly for the most up-to-date information on tours.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography rules can vary. While general areas like the courtyard might be fine for personal photos, it's always best to check for specific restrictions, especially in areas with religious significance or administrative functions.
The interior courtyard, with its Tuscan columns and views of the Cathedral tower, is a prime spot for photography. The architectural details on the facades also offer interesting photographic opportunities.
Photography of religious art, like the Baroque altarpiece in the chapel, may be restricted. It's advisable to look for signage or ask for permission before taking pictures inside the chapel.
🎫 🏛️ History & Architecture
The current palace dates back to the 16th century, built after a fire destroyed the previous structure. It has undergone several reconstructions, notably after the fire of 1934, incorporating elements from different periods and bishops.
The palace showcases a mix of styles, reflecting its various reconstruction phases. You can observe elements from the Renaissance, with later modifications and Baroque influences, particularly in the chapel altarpiece.
The coats of arms displayed on the facades represent various bishops and royalty, such as King Philip II of Spain, and the chapter. They are important historical markers of the palace's patrons and its construction periods.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Parents might find it beneficial to focus on the visual aspects – pointing out the different coats of arms or the grandeur of the chapel's altarpiece (if accessible). It's a good opportunity to discuss the history of Oviedo and its religious significance in a calm setting. However, keep in mind that it's an active residence and office space, so maintaining a respectful and quiet demeanor is important.
🏛️ History Buffs
Exploring the palace allows for an appreciation of its role as the center of the Archdiocese, housing important diocesan offices and a historical archive. The chapel's Baroque altarpiece is a significant artistic and historical artifact. Visitors interested in the evolution of religious and administrative buildings in Spain will find much to discover here.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Architectural Evolution and Historical Significance
Architecturally, the palace presents a sober yet elegant style, fitting within the complex it forms with the annexed Cathedral. Visitors can observe a blend of styles reflecting its various phases of construction and renovation. Key features include the main entrance with a large door and episcopal coat of arms, a projecting balcony, and the coats of arms of influential figures like King Philip II of Spain and various bishops. The south facade, on Canóniga Street, bears the coat of arms of Bishop Juan García Avello Castrillón and features an arch connecting to the Cathedral.
The palace's historical significance extends beyond its architecture. It has served as the Archbishop's residence, housed diocesan offices, and contains a historical archive. The central courtyard, renovated by Bishop Ramón Martínez Vigil, offers a beautiful perspective of the Cathedral tower, making it a focal point for visitors. The chapel within the palace boasts an impressive 18th-century Baroque altarpiece, adding a significant artistic element to the site.
Navigating Visitor Experience and Access
When planning a visit, it's important to manage expectations regarding public access. The palace is noted for its calm atmosphere, and the courtyard provides a unique vantage point for appreciating the adjacent Cathedral's tower. The architectural details, including historical coats of arms and the Baroque altarpiece in the chapel, are highlights that can be appreciated from accessible areas. However, for specific historical research or access to sensitive areas, direct communication with the Archdiocese of Oviedo is recommended to understand current policies and possibilities.
Travelers looking to understand the palace's role in the Archdiocese of Oviedo will find it to be a place where one can 'breathe peace, tranquility, calm.' The sober elegance of the building complements its function. While not a bustling tourist attraction, its historical and architectural significance, coupled with its serene ambiance, makes it a worthwhile stop for those interested in the religious and administrative heart of Oviedo.
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