Classroom of the Kingdom of Asturias Cangas de Onís

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See on the map Classroom of the Kingdom of Asturias

Latitude: 43.3473549 Length: -5.1248646
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The classroom, a cultural facility with a broad historical scope, is located in the former church of Cangas de Arriba and offers a panoramic and educational approach to the historical reality of the Kingdom of Asturias . The visit specifically focuses on the period between the 8th and 10th centuries, through a series of explanatory panels and a display of reproductions of objects, images, and artifacts from that era, clearly demonstrating the territorial reach and political influence of the Asturian kingdom after the Muslim withdrawal.

Battle of Covadonga

We can also enjoy an ambitious audiovisual presentation , focused on the Battle of Covadonga , which immerses us in the historical events, evoking sensations in all five senses. The installation is enhanced by striking lighting and sound effects that deepen the recreation of the battle. This comprehensive audiovisual presentation serves as an interpretive tool for such a significant historical event, one with considerable gaps in historical understanding.

Since Asturias was the site of the first successful resistance against Islamic power, Covadonga and the Cangas de Onís valley have always attracted the attention of numerous scholars. Scientific data on Pelayo and the events that took place in Covadonga are scarce, fragmented, contradictory , and not always reliable; however, the battle's significance in the subsequent Reconquista is undeniable, as is the role of the monarchical dynasty that established itself in the Principality from the 8th century onwards.

The Asturian monarchy

The Asturian monarchs brought relics from the Holy Land, created and developed the pre-Romanesque churches and civil works that are now recognized as World Heritage Sites, and promoted the creation of works of art such as the Cross of Victory, the Cross of the Angels, the Agate Ark, etc. The undisputed leader of this dynasty was Pelayo , who reigned between the years 722 and 737.

He was succeeded by his son Favila , who died in a hunt, mauled by a bear. Alfonso I , Pelayo's son-in-law, ascended the throne later, from 739 to 757, and it was he who ordered the construction of the first Sanctuary in the Cave of Covadonga . His conquests extended from the Cantabrian coast to the south of the Duero River.

The line of succession continued with Fruela I , who was assassinated. After him, Aurelio ascended the throne , followed by King Silo , who moved the court to Pravia.

Mauregato reigned between 783-789 and was succeeded by Bermudo the Deacon , who moved the Court again to Cangas de Onís.

Alfonso II "the Chaste" moved the court to Oviedo, marking a turning point in history . His long reign definitively established and consolidated the Asturian kingdom. He was succeeded by Ramiro I , who continued his work. Next came Ordoño I , who forged alliances with the Mozarabs who continued to practice Christianity. Finally, Alfonso III "the Great" (866-910) strengthened the Asturian-Leonese kingdom. Upon his death, a political crisis ensued, the court moved to León, and Asturias began its period of isolation throughout the 10th century.

The significance of this Asturian dynasty in Spanish history is remarkable , and its rise, splendor, and decline are documented in numerous artifacts and exhibits within the church that houses the Aula del Reino (Academy of the Kingdom). The panels and archaeological remains reveal details of royal buildings, documented ecclesiastical foundations, necropolises and fortifications, battles, and even the area's rock-cut architecture.

The equipment in the Kingdom Classroom also serves to be of interest to the youngest children , who have access to various interactive facilities to learn through play.