Tour de los misterios y leyendas de Oviedo

Discover the Hidden Side of Oviedo with the Tour de los Misterios y Leyendas

If you’re curious about the stories lurking behind Oviedo’s charming streets, this Tour de los Misterios y Leyendas might be just what you’re looking for. While I haven’t personally taken this walk, from what I’ve read and what travelers are saying, it offers a fascinating look into the city’s shadowy past—stories of exorcisms, witches, ghosts, and legendary beings from Asturian mythology. It’s a chance to see Oviedo in a different light, especially after sunset when the city’s secrets come alive.

What really catches my eye is the affordable price of just $11 per person and the fact that it’s a 1.5-hour experience—perfect for fitting into a relaxed evening. Two aspects I particularly like are the detailed storytelling under the cathedral’s shadow and the focus on authentic legends linked to medieval exorcisms and myths. However, a potential drawback is that the tour is conducted in Spanish, so non-Spanish speakers might find it less accessible unless they have language support. This experience seems best suited for those who enjoy history, folklore, and a little bit of spooky tales, especially if you’re visiting Oviedo and want a different perspective on the city.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Authentic storytelling by a professional, accredited guide who has been leading since 2020
• Affordable price point at just $11 per person, making it accessible for most travelers
• Covers a broad spectrum of legends, from ghost stories to witchcraft and mythological beings
• Includes the Holy Chamber, where the famous holy shroud is kept—adding a layer of intrigue
• Walking at night creates a perfect atmosphere for the stories and legends to resonate
• Accessible for wheelchair users, making it a welcoming experience for many travelers

A Deep Dive into the Oviedo Night Mysteries

If you’re like us, seeking more than just the standard sightseeing, this tour offers a unique glimpse into Oviedo’s mysterious side. It’s clear from reviews that the storytelling style is engaging and personable. One traveler, Rubén, mentioned how the guide’s humor and participation made the experience feel like a visit among friends, adding a warm touch despite the dark themes. That personal touch is vital in these kinds of stories—this isn’t just rote history; it’s lively storytelling that brings legends to life.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

The tour begins at the Puerta de la Catedral de Oviedo (Plaza Alfonso II), right at the heart of the city. From here, we’re taken on a walk through several historic and mysterious sites with a professional guide who will share their knowledge in Spanish.

Under the cathedral tower, you’ll hear the story of the curse of Oria, which is linked to one of the earliest documented medieval exorcisms. This sets the tone for the tour—dark, historical, and a little bit eerie. It’s fascinating to think that such an event happened right where you stand, and it adds a layer of authenticity that many ghost stories lack.

Next, the Holy Chamber of Oviedo’s cathedral holds the mystery of the holy shroud. You’ll hear about its origins and why it’s kept in that enigmatic space, adding a sense of sacred secrecy to the experience. If you’re into religious artifacts and ancient relics, this part is likely to catch your interest. The guide will also spin legends about Asturian kings, which helps contextualize Oviedo’s long history of myth and monarchy.

Moving beyond the cathedral, you’ll explore the Arcu de Cimavilla, a historical spot intertwined with Oviedo’s relationship with witchcraft. There, stories connect the city’s past to the darker side of superstition. The tour then takes you to the ancient lagoon of El Fontán, where tales of drownings and ghostly apparitions make the atmosphere even more compelling.

As you walk towards Palacio de la Rúa and the Socastiello neighborhood, the stories get spookier. This area is described as “gloomy,” but that’s part of the charm—perfect for a ghost story walk. A review mentions stories so chilling that even paranormal researcher Iker Jiménez would be interested. The guide shares tales of ghost sightings, adding a supernatural flavor that many find captivating.

The Darker Corners: Legends and Secrets

One of the more surprising revelations is that Oviedo served as a hideout for Nazi criminals after WWII. While this isn’t a typical tourist story, it’s an example of how layered and complex the city’s history is. We learn about one particular Nazi criminal who died in 2001, reminding us that history’s shadows still linger. The Palacio de la Rúa, one of the oldest medieval towers in Asturias, is another site filled with intrigue and secrets, making it a perfect spot for those who love uncovering hidden stories.

The tour wraps up at the Campusagráu Palace or the University, with stories about legendary beings from Asturian mythology. This part ties everything together—the folklore, the history, and the legends that make Oviedo’s past so colorful and mysterious.

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Why Is This Tour Worth It?

What makes this experience stand out is its storytelling quality and the way it combines historical facts with legends and myths. The price of $11 makes it accessible for many, and the fact that it’s only 1.5 hours means it’s a perfect add-on in an evening itinerary. It’s clear from reviews that participants appreciate the guide’s engaging manner and the authentic nature of the stories.

While the tour is in Spanish, most travelers who understand the language will benefit from the depth of knowledge shared. Also, the walking component means you’ll get some fresh air and enjoy seeing different parts of Oviedo after dark, which adds to the experience’s charm.

Practical Tips

• Check availability early, as the start times can vary, and this tour is quite popular.
• Be prepared for a walking tour, so wear comfortable shoes and bring a light jacket if evenings are cool.
• Since it’s conducted in Spanish, consider bringing a translation app if you’re not fluent.
• The tour is wheelchair accessible, making it more inclusive.
• Keep in mind that audio recording isn’t allowed, so be ready to listen and participate.
• It’s a short tour, so don’t expect an exhaustive history lesson—think of it as a curated story session.

Who Should Consider This Tour

If you’re fascinated by legends, enjoy spooky stories, or want a different way to experience Oviedo, this tour is a solid choice. It’s especially good for history buffs who like stories of the supernatural and those interested in the city’s more mysterious past. It’s also a fun option for travelers looking for an evening activity that’s different from typical sightseeing, offering a glimpse into Oviedo’s darker stories.

It isn’t ideal if you don’t speak Spanish or prefer highly structured, museum-style tours. But if you love stories, legends, and a bit of atmospheric storytelling, this experience will likely leave you intrigued and entertained.

Final Thoughts

The Tour de los misterios y leyendas de Oviedo offers a unique, affordable way to explore the city’s hidden stories. It’s crafted by a knowledgeable guide who brings the legends to life, making history feel fresh and immediate. The combination of ghost stories, mythological beings, and historical secrets makes it a captivating experience, especially in the evening when the city’s darkness amplifies the atmosphere.

For those who enjoy a mix of history and mystery, and don’t mind a bit of spooky storytelling, this tour provides a memorable way to see Oviedo through a different lens. It’s a great choice for curious travelers ready to uncover the city’s shadowy past without breaking the bank.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for non-Spanish speakers?
Since the tour is conducted in Spanish, non-Spanish speakers might find it challenging without translation assistance. If you’re fluent or have basic understanding, you’ll enjoy the storytelling; otherwise, consider preparing with a translation app.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 1.5 hours, which makes it a manageable and engaging evening activity.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at the Puerta de la Catedral de Oviedo (Plaza Alfonso II) and ends back at the same point, making it easy to include in your plans.

What are some highlights of the tour?
You’ll explore sites like the Holy Chamber, the Arcu de Cimavilla, and the Socastiello neighborhood, all while hearing stories about exorcisms, witches, ghosts, and mythical beings.

Is the tour family-friendly?
The guide’s storytelling style is engaging for many, but the dark themes and ghost stories might be more suitable for older children or adults.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, it’s designed to be accessible for wheelchair users, which is great for inclusivity.

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

Does the tour include any physical transportation?
No, this is a walking tour, so wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for some light strolling through the city’s historic streets.

Whether you’re a folklore lover or just looking for an unusual night activity, this tour offers a genuine taste of Oviedo’s mysterious side. It’s affordable, authentic, and a chance to see the city’s legends come alive after dark.

You can check availability for your dates here: