Civil War Tour of Oviedo

Unearthing Oviedo’s Civil War Past: A Practical Look at the Civil War Tour

If you’re interested in Spain’s complex history, particularly the tumultuous period of the Civil War, the Civil War Tour of Oviedo offers a compelling glimpse into the city’s recent past. We haven’t had the chance to do this tour ourselves, but from what’s described, it seems like a thoughtfully curated experience that combines storytelling with tangible city scars. It’s perfect for history enthusiasts, students, or anyone curious about how war leaves its mark on a city and its people.

What we genuinely appreciate about this tour is the way it emphasizes the physical remnants of conflict—like shells still embedded in façades—which help bring history to life. Plus, guided by a qualified historian, Denis Soria, you’re not just hearing stories but gaining insights grounded in expertise. On the downside, the tour’s 1.5-hour duration means it’s somewhat condensed, so if you’re eager for a deep dive, you might want to supplement it with other experiences. Overall, it’s well-suited for those fascinated by military history, urban scars of war, or local stories of resilience.

This experience would suit travelers who prefer guided cultural and historical insights in manageable time frames. It’s also a good pick if you’re already exploring Oviedo’s historic streets and want a focused, thematic walk. Keep in mind, transportation and entrance fees aren’t included, so plan accordingly if you want a seamless day.

Key Points

• Focused on recent history: The tour covers key events in Oviedo during the Civil War, from the first battles to repression.
• Visually impactful: You’ll see real battle marks, such as shells still embedded in buildings, that make history tangible.
• Expert narration: Led by a trained historian, Denis Soria, who brings rigor and objectivity to storytelling.
• Short but insightful: Lasts about 1.5 hours, perfect for a quick but meaningful historical overview.
• Not family-specific: Suitable for anyone interested in history, but not designed for very young children or those with mobility issues.
• Flexible booking: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and pay later options make planning easier.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at What You’ll Experience

Starting in front of the Reconquista Hotel, this tour sets the scene with an overview of the military conspiracy led by Colonel Aranda against the Republic. It’s a good foundation—especially for visitors unfamiliar with the detailed political background—because understanding the conspiracy helps contextualize the subsequent battles.

Next, the guide takes you to key battle sites, including the attack on the civil government headquarters and the Santa Clara barracks. These locations are not just historically significant but also give you a sense of the city’s strategic importance during the conflict. Walking these streets, you’ll see evidence of the fighting, which is quite striking—unexploded shells still lodged in façades serve as silent witnesses to the destruction that ravaged Oviedo. As one reviewer put it, “We loved the way the marks left by the fighting are still visible,” making history feel immediate rather than distant.

The tour then shifts to the Northern Front’s evolution, highlighting Lieutenant Colonel Teijeiro’s role in breaking the siege. This part of the narrative offers a nuanced look at how Oviedo managed to withstand and eventually turn the tide of the war. You’ll also learn about the city’s near-total destruction—only around thirty buildings remained intact after 15 months of conflict—which underscores the war’s toll on urban life.

One of the most emotionally charged sections is the visit to the tower of the Cathedral, which bears the scars of cannon fire. Here, the guide discusses the victims of the Republican bombings and Franco’s repression, including notable figures like the rector Leopoldo Alas. The discussion contextualizes the physical damage with the human costs, offering a sobering but necessary reminder of war’s human toll.

Throughout the tour, the guide’s storytelling—grounded in rigor and objectivity—adds credibility. According to one reviewer, “Denis, our guide, is a historian who brings the past to life with precision and no exaggeration.” It’s clear that the focus is on honesty and clarity, making this a very authentic experience.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

While the tour doesn’t include transportation or entry fees, the core value lies in the expert narration and the tangible links to history. The 1.5-hour duration makes it accessible, whether you’re in Oviedo for a short trip or looking to add a meaningful segment to your day. The fact that you’re walking through streets marked by shells and bombings makes the history very real—something photos or books can’t quite replicate.

For the price, you’re paying for a knowledgeable guide who can answer your questions and provide context that’s often missing in generic city walks. Plus, you get the flexibility of booking with a free cancellation policy, which is always a plus when traveling.

However, because transportation and entrance fees aren’t included, those expenses are on you. If you’re planning a full day of sightseeing, this could add up, but it’s still a worthwhile investment for a deep, guided understanding of Oviedo’s recent history.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is best suited for history enthusiasts, students, or travelers interested in military conflicts and their impacts. It’s perfect if you enjoy walking tours that combine storytelling with visual evidence of the past. Because it’s quite focused and brief, it fits well into a day of sightseeing without overwhelming your schedule.

It’s less suitable if you’re traveling with very young children, as the content is more serious and might be less engaging for them. Also, if you prefer a more interactive or multimedia experience, this pointed walking tour might feel a bit straightforward.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in this tour?
No, transportation isn’t included, so you’ll need to plan how to get to the starting point in front of the Reconquista Hotel.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts about 1.5 hours, making it manageable if you’re short on time or want a focused overview.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not specifically designed for children, older kids with an interest in history could find it engaging. Very young children or babies might find the content too serious.

Do I need to pay for entrance fees?
Yes, entrance fees are not included, so if any sites require tickets, those will be extra.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you flexibility in your travel plans.

Is the guide available in languages other than Spanish?
This particular tour is offered with a live guide in Spanish. If you’re not a Spanish speaker, consider whether you’re comfortable with this or if a private guide might be available in your preferred language.

In summary, the Civil War Tour of Oviedo offers a straightforward yet meaningful way to connect with the city’s recent history. It’s a great pick for those wanting a well-informed, visually impactful narrative about the conflict that shaped much of Oviedo’s landscape and collective memory. With a knowledgeable guide and the chance to see real battleground scars, it’s both educational and evocative. Just remember to consider transportation and entry fees, and be prepared for a serious, fact-focused walk through Oviedo’s wartime past.

You can check availability for your dates here: