If you’re the kind of traveler who appreciates history, art, and architecture, the guided tour of La Carriona cemetery in Avilés might just pique your interest. This isn’t your typical graveyard visit; it’s a deep dive into a monumentally significant space that tells stories of the town’s wealthy bourgeois, notable figures, and turbulent past.
What makes this experience stand out are its impressive monumental pantheons and marble sculptures, along with the insightful commentary on the city’s historic memory. On the flip side, the tour’s length—just about an hour and a half—means it’s more of a highlight reel than an exhaustive exploration, so if you’re craving more in-depth stories, you might want to combine it with other activities.
This tour is perfect for history buffs, art lovers, and anyone interested in local culture. It’s especially suited for travelers who want a meaningful, compact experience that offers both aesthetic enjoyment and educational value. Be prepared for some reflective moments, especially considering the civil war discussions woven into the narrative.
Key Points
- Unique setting: La Carriona is Spain’s largest open-air museum, built in the late 19th century, showcasing a variety of architectural styles.
- Architectural beauty: The cemetery features monumental pantheons, sculptures, and artistic works by renowned artists.
- Historical significance: It’s a window into Avilés’ social and cultural past, including its wealthy families and historical figures.
- Memorial importance: The tour covers topics like civil war memory, giving a respectful nod to the past.
- Educational value: Guides share stories about notable locals, from writers and poets to athletes and musicians.
- Accessible experience: The tour is wheelchair friendly and easy to fit into a half-day itinerary.
An In-Depth Look at the La Carriona Cemetery Tour
If you’re visiting Avilés or just passing through Asturias, the guided tour of La Carriona cemetery offers a compelling glimpse into the soul of this historic town. It’s run by DeRutaporAsturias, a provider rated full marks (5) for delivering a quality experience that balances art, history, and storytelling.
Planning more time in Aviles? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
What to Expect and Why It Matters
The municipal cemetery of La Carriona was designed by architect Ricardo Marcos Bausá at the end of the 19th century, during a period of prosperity in the region. Thanks to the wealth generated by industrialists, bourgeois families, and the Indianos (returning emigrants), the space became a showcase of artistic funerary architecture. Walking through it feels like strolling through an open-air museum; every street and pantheon exhibits distinct styles, from eclecticism and historicism to modernism.
The most striking feature is the pantheon of the Marquises of San Juan de Nieva, which is a highlight of the tour. You’ll see marble sculptures and architectural details that reflect the artistic trends of the time. Many sculptures by artists like Manuel del Busto and Cipriano Folgueras Doiztúa have won awards and are considered significant works of funerary art.
The Artistic and Cultural Heritage
The cemetery is essentially a city of the dead, with its urban planning and layout carefully designed to resemble a small city. This makes it especially interesting for those who appreciate architecture and urban design. As you walk through the main and secondary streets, your guide will point out notable figures buried here—from writers like Armando Palacio Valdés to poets Marcos del Torniello and Ana de Valle. The presence of athletes, such as Yago Lamela, and football legends Jesús and Quini, adds a layer of local pride.
The sculptures themselves are impressive. The tour mentions that works by artists of the time are spread throughout, with some, like the 1902 monument to the Marquises, earning accolades even today. An interesting point is the sculpture that won the Prize for the best Spanish funerary sculpture in 2015, highlighting the ongoing appreciation of this art form.
The Civil War and Historical Memory
One of the more reflective parts of the tour covers the role of the cemetery in the memory of the civil war. You’ll learn about how this space served as a site of remembrance and how its monuments contribute to the collective memory of those turbulent times. This adds depth to the experience, offering a somber reminder of history that’s tangible in the sculptures and memorials.
More Great Tours NearbyGroup Size, Duration, and Accessibility
The tour lasts about 1.5 hours, making it a manageable activity for most travelers. It’s conducted live in Spanish, but given its visual focus and the guide’s storytelling, non-Spanish speakers might still enjoy it, especially if they have some knowledge of the topics covered.
Group size isn’t specified, but given the nature of guided tours, it’s probably intimate enough to ask questions and engage with the guide. The meeting point is outside the main gate, right in front of plaques recognizing awards received—easy to find.
The tour is wheelchair accessible, which is a notable plus, considering the uneven nature of some paths in cemeteries of this kind.
Is It Good Value?
At a relatively short duration, the cost of this tour offers a chance to see a significant part of Avilés’ cultural heritage without breaking the bank. It’s a solid option for those who want a guided, informative experience without committing to a full-day excursion.
What Do Other Visitors Say?
Feedback from reviews highlights that visitors are struck by the monumentality of the cemetery and its sculptures. One review mentions, “The monumentality leaves no visitor indifferent,” which captures how impactful the space is. Others appreciate the insightful commentary on the figures buried there and the role of the cemetery in local history.
Some reviewers note that the artistic quality of the sculptures is impressive, and the guide’s storytelling helps bring the space to life. Because it’s a shorter tour, some might find it a bit rushed if they’re passionate about detailed history, but overall, the feedback is very positive.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This experience is best suited for travelers interested in art, architecture, and history. If you enjoy historical sites that combine visual beauty with storytelling, you’ll likely find it captivating. It’s also a great choice if you’re looking for an activity that’s not overly long but still meaningful.
It’s less likely to appeal if you’re seeking a more interactive or family-oriented tour, unless your family appreciates historical and artistic settings. However, its accessibility and brief duration make it a good fit for most visitors wanting a taste of Avilés’ past.
Final Thoughts
The guided tour of La Carriona cemetery in Avilés offers a distinctive look at the region’s artistic, social, and cultural history. It’s a chance to walk through a beautifully designed space filled with sculptures and monuments, all while learning about notable locals and the historical context surrounding them.
For anyone craving a thoughtful, visually engaging experience that combines art with history, this tour is a strong contender. It’s especially valuable for those who appreciate architectural details and memorial art. Though it’s a snapshot rather than an exhaustive history, it leaves visitors with a genuine appreciation of how a cemetery can serve as a reflection of a community’s soul.
If you’re interested in cultural heritage and enjoy exploring historical sites, this tour offers enough depth and beauty to justify a spot in your itinerary. Plus, with its accessibility and flexible cancellation policy, it’s a low-risk, high-reward addition to your trip to Asturias.
Avilés: Guided tour of the La Carriona cemetery
FAQ
Is the tour suitable for non-Spanish speakers?
Most of the tour is conducted live in Spanish, but because it relies heavily on visual elements like sculptures and architecture, non-Spanish speakers can still enjoy the experience, especially if they have some background knowledge or use a translation app.
How long does the tour last?
Approximately 1.5 hours, making it a quick yet meaningful activity that fits well into a half-day plan.
Is the cemetery accessible for people with mobility issues?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, allowing visitors with mobility challenges to explore the space comfortably.
What is the meeting point?
It’s at the main gate of the cemetery, in front of the recognition plaques, with coordinates 43.54163360595703, -5.9375901222229.
Can I cancel and get a refund?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.
Are pets allowed on the tour?
Pets are not permitted, though assistance dogs are allowed.
Is this a family-friendly activity?
While not specifically designed for children, older kids interested in history and art might find it engaging. It’s best suited for adult travelers or families with older children.
Exploring a cemetery might seem unusual at first, but if you’re after a thought-provoking, visually stunning, and culturally enriching experience, La Carriona’s guided tour is a solid choice. It offers a balanced look at art, history, and memory that will resonate long after you leave.
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