The Sanctuary of Covadonga is a symbolic place of great significance for all Asturians where nature, history and religion come together in one place. It is the most visited monumental complex in Asturias. There you will find a sanctuary dedicated to the Virgin of Covadonga, also known as La Santina, and the Battle of Covadonga.
This battle has a mythical origin, in which its characters are real but intermingle with the legend. Reportedly, the Spanish Reconquest was originated here. The Virgin appeared to Pelagius, first king of the Asturians, and announced that victory was on his side despite the bad forecasts, giving him the Victory Cross. The Muslim defeat was thanks to her, who turned the arrows that the Muslims threw them into the cave, where the Asturians were, making them defeated thanks to their divine intervention.
You can access the Holy Cave crossing a small cave, where there is a space where you can make offerings and requests with candles. Once there, in the space to pray, you will see the Virgin and the grave of Pelagius. From there, the views of the Prince's Park and the Basilica are overwhelming.
Next to the cave, is the Basilica Santa María de Covadonga, of neo-romantic style. It was built with stones from the mountains of Covadonga, pinkish in color. It has 1 central nave, 3 apses and 2 tall towers. Inside there are works of art that represent the "Proclamation of King Pelagius" and the Annunciation, as well as a replica of the Victoria Cross.
On the esplanade of the Basilica, there is the bronze statue of Pelagius, designed by Eduardo Zaragoza. From here, the warrior will continue to protect his kingdom over time. On its pedestal it can be read: “Our hope is in Christ. This little mountain will be the salvation of Spain. Chronicle of Alfonso III”. This phrase reflects (bypassing religious and historical connotations) to strive to achieve our ends with effort and hope.
Keeping the entrance to the sanctuary there are 2 large lions of Carrara marble. Its origin is in Rome, when its sculptor visited the Vatican and was impressed by the tomb of Clement XIII, guarded by 2 lions. After that, he brought the project to Asturias and created these imposing replicas that protect Covadonga from any danger.
