Sanctuary of Covadonga

In the Picos de Europa mountains, there is a quaint and unique Christian sanctuary. This small church sits above a waterfall and is tucked within a spectacular natural cave.

Historians believe the cave was a site of prehistoric pagan worship before it became a Christian refuge.

According to tradition, the cave was where Pelagius of Asturias, founder of the Kingdom of Asturias, found a statue of the Virgin Mary.

On your way to the church, you will pass through a tunnel carved out of the mountain. Two large lions sculpted in Carrara marble guide you to the entrance of the sanctuary. Aside from the cave though, this is part of the larger Covadonga Sanctuary, home to many sites well worth visiting including the Basilica, the San Fernando Religious College, the Companona Bell, The "Married Fountain", Princes Park and the King Pelayo Monument.

The Sanctuary is located about a 1 hour and 15-minute drive east of the city of Oviedo.

If you want to avoid crowds, it may be best not to visit the Holy Cave of Covadonga during mass. Leave yourself at least one whole day to visit the Sanctuary as there is so much to see.