San Pedro de los Arcos Church - Image 1
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San Pedro de los Arcos Church

4.4
·109 reviews·Oviedo, Spain

A neo-Romanesque church with a striking pink stone exterior, set on a scenic hillside overlooking Oviedo, offering historical intrigue.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Late afternoon

Golden hour glow

CrowdLow
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San Pedro de los Arcos Church - Image 1

San Pedro de los Arcos Church

Best Time

Late afternoon

Golden hour glow

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A neo-Romanesque church with a striking pink stone exterior, set on a scenic hillside overlooking Oviedo, offering historical intrigue.

4.4
(109 reviews)

"Came across this local parish church by chance, just after the train station, on the way up the hill to Naranco. It had the most exquisite pink stone exterior."

Vertical photo
TIP

📸 Capture the Sunset

The church offers a beautiful backdrop for sunset photos. Plan your visit accordingly for stunning golden hour shots.

🌸 Admire the Magnolias

If visiting in spring, the blooming magnolia trees add a special charm to the church's setting.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Exquisite Pink Stone Exterior

Exquisite Pink Stone Exterior

Exterior of the church

Admire the striking pink stone facade, a unique architectural feature that stands out against the natural surroundings.

Scenic Hillside Location

Scenic Hillside Location

Slopes of Naranco

Enjoy the church's prominent position on the hill, offering pleasant views and a serene atmosphere, especially with blooming magnolia trees.

Historical Echoes

Historical Echoes

Church grounds

Reflect on the site's potential ancient origins, with whispers of Visigothic chapels predating the current neo-Romanesque structure.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit

While San Pedro de los Arcos Church is a beautiful sight, it's often visited as part of a larger exploration of Oviedo. Consider combining your visit with nearby attractions like the Pre-Romanesque churches of Naranco and Santa María del Naranco for a more comprehensive experience. Check local event schedules for any special services or community gatherings that might affect access or add to the atmosphere.

Understanding the Context

This neo-Romanesque church, built in 1910, stands on a prominent hill overlooking Oviedo. Its pink stone exterior is striking, and the surrounding magnolia trees add to its charm. While the church itself is a focal point, its historical significance is tied to the area's rich past, with mentions of earlier structures on the site, potentially dating back to the Visigothic period.

Best Times

When
Late afternoon
Why
Golden hour glow
Crowd
Low
When
Spring mornings
Why
Magnolias in bloom
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Guárdalo y visítalo. 🔐 | 𝑴𝑰𝑵𝑰 𝑮𝑼𝑰́𝑨 𝑫𝑬 𝑨𝑺𝑻𝑼𝑹𝑰𝑨𝑺 | Sígueme para más planes 🌿 ⭐️ ¿Estás pensando en una escapada o vacaciones por la Tierrina? Pues quédate porque te voy a contar mis imprescindibles para que la disfrutes y estés deseando volver. 📍𝗟𝗨𝗚𝗔𝗥𝗘𝗦 𝗗𝗘 𝗜𝗡𝗧𝗘𝗥𝗘́𝗦: Oviedo, Gijón, Avilés, Cudillero, Luarca, Taramundi, Lastres, Ribadesella, Llanes, Bulnes, Sotres, Somiedo, Cangas de Onís, Covadonga ...
@belenchi_1983
6.7K likes • 343.3K views

📸 Capture the Sunset

The church offers a beautiful backdrop for sunset photos. Plan your visit accordingly for stunning golden hour shots. Reddit

🌸 Admire the Magnolias

If visiting in spring, the blooming magnolia trees add a special charm to the church's setting. Reddit

📍Igᥣᥱsιᥲ dᥱ Sᥲᥒ Fᥱ́ᥣιx ᥱᥒ Cᥲᥒdᥲ́s📍IGLESIA 📌Reconstruida tras la Guerra Civil, en ella se mezclan elementos de tendencia Neobarroca (las torres), historicista (la portada monumental) y otros de tradición asturiana (cabildo hacia el lado sur). 📌Los restos arquitectónicos y decorativos medievales, en la Capilla de San Félix situada detrás del Altar Mayor, atestiguan la existencia de una primitiva c...
cavaliereperlavita
323 likes • 8.6K views
📍 Iglesia de San Pedro de los Francos, Calatayud (Zaragoza). Los orígenes del templo radican en la época de la reconquista, en la que se establecieron numerosos francos en la ciudad y el Rey Alfonso I el Batallador les agradeció sus servicios mediante su construcción. La fábrica actual es del s. XIV, gótica y con retablo mayor barroco, de 1669. En la actualidad se mantiene cerrada al culto y só...
ars_aedificia
316 likes • 3.1K views

🚶 Combine with Naranco

This church is conveniently located near the Pre-Romanesque churches of Naranco and Santa María del Naranco. TikTok

🧐 Look for Historical Clues

The site may have older foundations; keep an eye out for any historical markers or information. Reddit

La previa del MISIONESADORA está que arde! . . Recibimos personas de Irigoyen , Iguazú, Alem, Obera, San Vicente y de toda la provincia! . . Nuestra provincia está encendida con el FUEGO DEL ESPÍRITU SANTO! . . Fuimos llamados a empoderar las naciones y llevar el nombre de Jesús a los confines de la tierra. . Gracias a la @laferiaoficial por ser parte de esta gran noche de adoración! . #misione...
luzproduccionesoficial
576 likes • 22.6K views

Tips

from all over the internet

📸 Capture the Sunset

The church offers a beautiful backdrop for sunset photos. Plan your visit accordingly for stunning golden hour shots. Reddit

🌸 Admire the Magnolias

If visiting in spring, the blooming magnolia trees add a special charm to the church's setting. Reddit

🚶 Combine with Naranco

This church is conveniently located near the Pre-Romanesque churches of Naranco and Santa María del Naranco. TikTok

🧐 Look for Historical Clues

The site may have older foundations; keep an eye out for any historical markers or information. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.4
(109 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors often praise the San Pedro de los Arcos Church for its beautiful pink stone exterior and its picturesque setting on the hillside, especially when surrounded by blooming magnolia trees. The church's historical context, with potential links to earlier structures, also adds to its appeal. Some reviewers noted that they didn't get to see the interior, suggesting that checking opening times is advisable.

"Came across this local parish church by chance, just after the train station, on the way up the hill to Naranco. It had the most exquisite pink stone exterior. Unfortunately didn't get to have a look inside."

Stuart McCleane

"Very beautiful church and the place around it"

Olga S

"Sunset at San Pedro's church"

Greg Tower

What People Like

Beautiful pink stone exterior
Scenic hillside location
Pleasant atmosphere

What People Dislike

Limited interior access information

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

San Pedro de los Arcos Church is located on the slopes of Naranco, near the train station. You can reach it by a short taxi ride or a brisk walk uphill from the city center. It's often visited in conjunction with the Pre-Romanesque churches of Naranco and Santa María del Naranco, so consider planning a route that includes all three. TikTok

While direct bus routes might be limited, local buses serving the Naranco area can get you close. It's advisable to check current Asturian public transport schedules for the most convenient options. TikTok

Yes, driving is an option, and there is likely parking available near the church, especially if you are visiting during off-peak hours. The drive up the hill offers scenic views of Oviedo. Reddit

While the Camino Primitivo passes through Oviedo, San Pedro de los Arcos Church is not directly on the main pilgrim route. However, it's a worthwhile detour for those exploring the city and its surroundings. Reddit

Many visitors combine a visit to San Pedro de los Arcos Church with the UNESCO World Heritage sites of Santa María del Naranco and San Miguel de Lillo. This can be done by car, taxi, or a dedicated walking tour. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

San Pedro de los Arcos Church is a local parish church, and typically, entry to the main sanctuary is free for visitors. However, it's always a good idea to check for any specific visiting hours or if there are any special events that might affect access. Reddit

As a functioning church, its hours are generally aligned with religious services. It's best to check with the local parish or look for posted hours on-site, especially if you plan to visit outside of typical daytime hours. Reddit

Visitors can usually enter the church to admire its interior. However, access might be restricted during mass or other religious ceremonies. Reddit

Generally, there is no admission fee to enter San Pedro de los Arcos Church. Donations are often appreciated to help with the upkeep of the building. Reddit

While official guided tours might not be readily available for this specific parish church, local tourist information centers or guides for the Naranco area might include it in their itineraries. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

Photography rules can vary in churches. It's respectful to check for signage or ask a church official before taking photos inside. Often, flash photography is discouraged to protect artwork and avoid disturbing worshippers. Reddit

The late afternoon, during the golden hour, offers beautiful lighting on the pink stone exterior. Spring mornings are also lovely, especially when the magnolia trees are in bloom. Reddit

Yes, the church's hillside location provides opportunities for wider shots that include the surrounding landscape and views of Oviedo. The pink stone exterior itself is a strong photographic subject. Reddit

A standard lens for exterior shots and a wider lens for capturing the interior space would be beneficial. If you plan to photograph during low light, a tripod might be useful, but be mindful of church regulations. Reddit

Drone usage is subject to strict regulations in most urban and historical areas. It's highly unlikely that drone photography is permitted over or near the church without special permits. Always check local drone laws before flying. Reddit

🎫 🏛️ History & Architecture

San Pedro de los Arcos Church is built in a neo-Romanesque style, designed by architect Luis Bellido and dating back to 1910. Its distinctive pink stone exterior is a notable feature. Reddit

Historical accounts suggest that earlier buildings may have existed on this site, possibly including a primitive chapel from the 6th-century Visigothic period, though further studies are needed to confirm this. Reddit

The church is significant for its neo-Romanesque architecture and its prominent location. It also sits in an area with a rich historical past, with mentions of earlier religious structures and its proximity to sites of historical events. Reddit

The church was designed by the architect Luis Bellido. It was constructed in 1910. Reddit

'San Pedro de los Arcos' translates to 'Saint Peter of the Arches'. The name likely refers to Saint Peter and possibly architectural features or historical elements of the site. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

San Pedro de los Arcos Church offers a relatively calm and visually appealing stop for families. The striking pink stone exterior can capture children's attention, and the surrounding grounds, especially with blooming magnolias in spring, provide a pleasant environment for a short break. It's a good opportunity to introduce children to different architectural styles and the idea of historical sites. Reddit

Combine your visit with the nearby Pre-Romanesque churches of Naranco and Santa María del Naranco, which are also fascinating for younger visitors due to their unique shapes and historical stories. The open spaces around these sites can allow children to move around a bit more freely. Remember to check for any specific rules regarding children's behavior inside the church itself. TikTok

🚶 Pilgrims on the Camino Primitivo

While San Pedro de los Arcos Church isn't directly on the Camino Primitivo route, it's a worthwhile detour for pilgrims passing through Oviedo. After completing the urban section of the Camino in Oviedo, consider spending an extra day to explore this beautiful church and the nearby UNESCO sites of Santa María del Naranco and San Miguel de Lillo. Reddit

This excursion offers a change of pace from the daily walking and provides a deeper appreciation for the historical and architectural richness of the region. The climb up to the church can be a good way to stretch your legs and enjoy some elevated views before continuing your pilgrimage. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Architectural Charm and Historical Roots

San Pedro de los Arcos Church, a neo-Romanesque edifice completed in 1910, is a striking landmark in Oviedo. Designed by Luis Bellido, its most captivating feature is its exquisite pink stone exterior, which stands out beautifully against the natural landscape. The church is situated on a prominent hill, offering a picturesque setting, especially when the surrounding magnolia trees are in bloom. This elevated position provides a sense of grandeur and allows for pleasant views over the city. Reddit

The history of the site itself adds another layer of intrigue. It is believed that earlier structures may have occupied this location, with some speculation pointing to a primitive chapel from the 6th-century Visigothic period. While these claims require further extensive study, they hint at a long-standing religious or historical significance of the area, predating the current church by centuries. This blend of relatively recent architecture with ancient historical echoes makes San Pedro de los Arcos Church a place of layered interest. Reddit

Beyond its architectural and historical aspects, the church is also situated in an area with a complex past. Nearby, one can find a monument to Aida Lafuente, a victim of the October 1934 revolution, and historical records mention a mass grave for victims of the Franco era in the original cemetery. While these are somber reminders, they are part of the broader historical narrative of the region surrounding the church. Reddit

Visiting in Conjunction with Naranco's Treasures

San Pedro de los Arcos Church is often visited as part of a broader exploration of Oviedo's rich heritage, particularly its Pre-Romanesque architectural gems. It's conveniently located on the slopes of Naranco, making it an ideal stop before or after visiting the world-renowned Santa María del Naranco and San Miguel de Lillo. These UNESCO World Heritage sites are just a short distance away and offer a glimpse into Asturian art and architecture from the 9th century. TikTok

Many visitors find it practical to group these sites together for a single excursion. Whether you're arriving by car or using local transport, planning a route that encompasses all three allows for a more efficient and rewarding experience. The journey up to these sites itself can be quite scenic, offering panoramic views of Oviedo. TikTok

When planning your visit, consider the time of day. Visiting San Pedro de los Arcos Church in the late afternoon can provide beautiful lighting for photography, especially during the golden hour. This timing also allows you to experience the other Naranco sites during daylight hours, maximizing your exploration of this historically significant area. Reddit

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