San Mateo Festivities in Oviedo

How San Mateo Festivities in Oviedo are Celebrated

The San Mateo Festivities are nationally recognized and are known for coinciding with the beginning of the academic year in this university city at the end of summer. The current duration of the festivities is approximately nine days, with dates varying depending on when September 21st falls, which is the central date of the celebration. The "Desfile de América en Asturias" (America Parade in Asturias) generally takes place on September 19th.

Musical events play a prominent role and are spread across various locations. Additionally, the Opera Season at the Campoamor Theater is one of the most anticipated moments for enthusiasts from all over Spain.

The Campo de San Francisco transforms into a space especially dedicated to children during these days, filled with puppets, games, theater, juggling, music, and contests. Sports activities for people of all ages are also scheduled.

Among the traditions, the Asturian pilgrimage of the "Cristo de las Cadenas" (Christ of the Chains) stands out, marking the conclusion of the festivities, accompanied by the distribution of the "bollo" (a type of bread roll) and wine.

On September 21st, the central day of San Mateo, it is customary for residents and visitors to enjoy an outdoor meal in parks, fields, and gardens, consisting of a generous bread roll filled with chorizo, all cooked together and accompanied by a bottle of wine.

Throughout all festive days, the liveliness spills into the streets, and people enjoy both day and night in the old town of the city, where small stalls with music are set up for refreshments. This festive atmosphere is maintained both with the tradition of the "Jubileo de la Santa Cruz" (Jubilee of the Holy Cross) and with the presence of those unrelated to the pilgrims of yesteryears.

The night of the fireworks in Oviedo has been a rooted tradition since the 1920s. It takes place in the Parque de Invierno (Winter Park), a suitable location due to its features, providing safety to attendees and offering optimal visibility from any point. Over 100,000 spectators come to witness this spectacle.

What to See in Oviedo

Oviedo, the capital of the Asturias region, is a city filled with history, culture, and natural beauty. Here are some of the standout places you can visit in Oviedo:

• San Salvador Cathedral: Also known as the Oviedo Cathedral, it is one of the most iconic monuments in the city. It combines different architectural styles and houses an important collection of sacred art.
• Santa María del Naranco and San Miguel de Lillo: These two pre-Romanesque churches are located on the outskirts of the city and are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. They are extraordinary examples of Asturian architecture from the 9th century.
• Camposagrado Palace: It is an impressive baroque palace that houses the Higher Court of Justice of Asturias. Its facade is one of the most representative examples of baroque style in the region.
• Plaza Mayor and City Hall: The Plaza Mayor is the heart of the old town of Oviedo. Here you'll find the City Hall, a historically significant building of great architectural beauty.
• University of Oviedo: The historic building of the University is a magnificent example of academic architecture. It's worth strolling through its halls and courtyards.
• Asturian Museum of Fine Arts: This museum boasts an impressive collection of works spanning from the 14th century to the present day. Notable artists include Velázquez, Goya, and Sorolla.
• Archaeological Museum of Asturias: Here you can explore the prehistoric and Roman history of the region. It contains a rich collection of artifacts and archaeological remains.
• El Fontán: It is a traditional market that has been restored and is now a lively space with bars, restaurants, and food stalls.
• San Francisco Park: A green space in the heart of the city, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a break amidst urban activity.
• Monte Naranco: Located on the outskirts of the city, this mount offers a panoramic view of Oviedo and is where you'll find the churches of San Miguel de Lillo and Santa María del Naranco.

The city has much more to offer in terms of culture, gastronomy, and nightlife.

What to Eat in Oviedo

Oviedo, like all of Asturias, has a rich gastronomic tradition. Here are some delicacies you must try during your visit:

• Cachopo: Cachopo is a typical dish of Asturian gastronomy, known for its generous size and delicious flavour. It consists of two beef fillets stuffed with Serrano ham and cheese, breaded and fried. The result is a juicy dish, crispy on the outside and full of intense flavours on the inside. It is usually served with chips and salad. The basic ingredients of Cachopo are beef fillets, Serrano ham and cheese, although there are also variations with other fillings such as mushrooms, seafood or peppers. It is a hearty and popular dish in Asturian cider houses, where it is enjoyed in company and with good cider. Cachopo is a true delight for meat lovers and a delicious example of Asturian cuisine.
• Fabada Asturiana: This is possibly the most famous dish of Asturian cuisine. It's a stew of "fabes" (large white beans) with chorizo, black pudding, bacon, and sometimes ham. It's a hearty and very comforting dish.
• Asturian Cider: Asturias is famous for its cider. You can try different varieties in local "chigres" (cider bars). It's common to "escanciar" the cider, which means pouring it from a height into a glass to enjoy its fresh flavor.
• Cheeses of Asturias: The region is known for producing a wide variety of delicious cheeses. Among the most notable are Cabrales (a blue cheese), Gamonéu, and Afuega'l Pitu.
• Bollos preñaos: These are bread rolls filled with chorizo, a popular option for a quick meal or a snack.
• Callos a la asturiana: This dish consists of beef tripe cooked with chorizo, black pudding, and sometimes potatoes. It's a very tasty and comforting option.
• Octopus in cider: The octopus is cooked with Asturian cider and served in tender and flavorful slices.
• "Pixín a la espalda": This is a typical local fish dish, where "pixín" (monkfish) is cooked on the griddle with garlic and parsley.
• "Culín" of cider: A "culín" is a small amount of cider, and it's the traditional way to drink it in Asturias. You can try different brands and varieties in local chigres.
• Rice pudding: This is a classic Asturian dessert. It's rice cooked in milk, sugar, and cinnamon, often served with a thin layer of caramelized sugar on top.

These are just some examples of the delicious food you can enjoy in Oviedo and throughout Asturias. Don't forget to try some Asturian cider to accompany your meals.