Astorga

History

Astorga is a small town in northern Spain. It has 12,100 inhabitants. Celtic tribes first settled in this place and the Romans came in 14 BC. Astorga was a very important city for the Romans and it was called “magnificent city”.

In the 8th century it was conquered by Spanish ruler Alfonso I of Asturias, but from the 11th century it was the most important point for the French pilgrims on their way to Saint Jacob’s tomb in Compostela.

During the Peninsular War (between France and the allied powers of Spain, the United Kingdom and Portugal in the 19th century), it was a settlement for Napoleon’s troops.

Main sights

The Cathedral of Astorga was built in the 16th century. It was originally designed in Gothic style, but after many reconstructions now it has the elements from later styles: Neo-Classicist period, Baroque and Renaissance. The Cathedral is well known for its famous sculptures, majority of them made by Gaspar Becerra in the 16th century.

These sculptures are considered as masterpieces of the Spanish Renaissance sculptures. On its doorways visitors can see scenes from the Bible. The cathedral also has two towers built in the 17th century. The interior of the cathedral is magnificent. It has a fascinating altar, designed by Gaspar de Hoyos. Moreover, its choir-stalls are well decorated.

Most of the cathedral treasury is displayed in the Diocesan Museum. Apart from the Roman baths, visitors can see the remains of the walls, forum, several mosaics and the Ergastula Romana. This underground room is thought to be a Roman prison for the slaves.

The Episcopal Palace is another important building in Astorga, designed by
well-known Catalan architect Antonio Gaudi. The Palace was built between 1889 and 1913, when the previous Episcopal residence was destroyed in a fire.

Gaudi had the idea to harmonize this Palace with its surroundings, so it was built in a neo-medieval style. It has four towers and a ditch around it. Another important building is the Town Hall, built in the 18th century. This Baroque structure has two towers and a famous clock with two figures that show the exact time.

Accommodation

Astorga has many villas with very comfortable rooms. Some villas are in the center of the town. There are taverns that offer large variety of domestic and international meals. The visitors will have a magnificent view of the city clock, beautiful cathedral and Gaudi’s building. There are many bars and restaurants all over the city and several night clubs for nights to remember.