{"id":118560,"date":"2025-03-19T18:35:52","date_gmt":"2025-03-19T18:35:52","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.mundiplus.com\/?p=118560"},"modified":"2025-03-19T18:45:53","modified_gmt":"2025-03-19T18:45:53","slug":"the-cathedral-of-san-salvador-the-starting-point-of-the-primitive-way","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.mundiplus.com\/en\/cathedral-of-st-saint-salvador-on-the-primitive-path\/","title":{"rendered":"The Cathedral of San Salvador, the starting point of the Primitive Way"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-118529 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.mundiplus.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Catedral-de-Oviedo-Mundiplus.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.mundiplus.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Catedral-de-Oviedo-Mundiplus.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.mundiplus.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Catedral-de-Oviedo-Mundiplus-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.mundiplus.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Catedral-de-Oviedo-Mundiplus-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.mundiplus.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Catedral-de-Oviedo-Mundiplus-600x400.jpg 600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You arrive in Oviedo and walk through its streets until you reach a square. Here, you encounter a majestic structure. This is not just any temple, but the imposing <\/span><b>Cathedral of San Salvador<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, a place with over a thousand years of history and the starting point of the Primitivo Way.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This route, chosen by King Alfonso II in the 9th century, preserves the essence of the first pilgrims. But <\/span><b>why is this place so special?<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Let\u2019s take a look at all the details below.<\/span><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h2><b>Connection with other routes to Santiago<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The Primitivo Way stands as the <\/span><b>mother route of the pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. Not only is it the oldest, but it is also known for the <\/span><b>physical<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and <\/span><b>spiritual demands<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> it imposes on those who walk it.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This route, which <\/span><b>starts at the Cathedral of San Salvador<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, requires meticulous preparation both physically and logistically. Its stages are characterised by steep climbs, technical descents, and a trail that delves into rugged landscapes full of history.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">On this route, every kilometre becomes a <\/span><b>journey through archaeological remains, monasteries<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, and small population centres that have witnessed the passage of ancient pilgrims. This route <\/span><b>links the spirituality of the pilgrimage with nature in its purest form<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, transforming physical effort into an act of introspection and deep connection.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In contrast, routes like the<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.mundiplus.com\/en\/caminos\/a-pie\/camino-sanabres\/camino-de-santiago-desde-orense\/\"> <b>Sanabr\u00e9s Way from Ourense<\/b><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> offer a different experience, benefiting from the influence of Galician tradition. This route combines river landscapes and architecture that, while less demanding topographically, stands out for its rural charm and connections to the region&#8217;s ancestral tradition.<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The comparison is inevitable: while the Sanabr\u00e9s seduces with its accessibility and diversity of scenery, the Primitivo focuses on the authenticity of a journey almost untouched by time.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It is also interesting to compare the Primitivo Way with the route of the<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.mundiplus.com\/en\/caminos\/a-pie\/camino-norte\/camino-de-santiago-desde-irun\/\"> <b>Camino de Santiago from Irun to Bilbao<\/b><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, where the <\/span><b>Basque influence<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is felt in every stretch.<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This variant incorporates <\/span><b>urban elements and coastal landscapes<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> that distance it from the austere and ancient spirit of the Primitivo. In this case, the mountainous terrain and the limited modern intervention enhance a sense of discovery and personal overcoming.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you prefer, you can take the<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.mundiplus.com\/en\/caminos\/a-pie\/camino-primitivo\/camino-de-santiago-desde-lugo\/\"> <b>Camino de Santiago Primitivo from Lugo<\/b><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. This stretch is perhaps a little less demanding than the route that starts in Oviedo. Still, it offers pilgrims the chance to explore a diverse cultural framework without sacrificing the physical challenge that characterises the original way.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yes, seeking the advice of a<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.mundiplus.com\/en\/\"> <b>specialised Camino de Santiago agency<\/b><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is essential to tackle such a demanding itinerary as the Primitivo. At Mundiplus, we not only provide detailed information about accommodation and critical stages, but also offer resources to prepare the body and mind for the adversities of the journey.<\/span><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h2><b>A temple with Gothic and pre-Romanesque influences<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The <\/span><b>Cathedral of San Salvador<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, known as Sancta Ovetensis, is a temple with an interesting history that combines <\/span><b>Gothic, pre-Romanesque, Romanesque, Renaissance, and Baroque<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> influences.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Its origins date back to the <\/span><b>8th century<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, when King Fruela I ordered the construction of a basilica on the same site. However, the current structure, <\/span><b>mostly Gothic<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, began to be built in the late 13th century and was completed in the 16th century.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The tower, a prominent element of Renaissance architecture, is <\/span><b>visible from various points of the city<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and has become a symbol of Oviedo.<\/span><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h3><b>The Holy Chamber, a treasure of religious art<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-118535 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.mundiplus.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Camara-Santa-Mundiplus.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"680\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.mundiplus.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Camara-Santa-Mundiplus.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.mundiplus.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Camara-Santa-Mundiplus-300x199.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.mundiplus.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Camara-Santa-Mundiplus-768x510.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.mundiplus.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Camara-Santa-Mundiplus-600x398.jpg 600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The <\/span><b>Holy Chamber<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is one of the most outstanding areas of the Cathedral of San Salvador, declared <\/span><b>UNESCO World Heritage<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. It houses two of the most emblematic crosses of Asturias: <\/span><b>the Cross of the Victory and the Cross of the Angels<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">These symbols represent the history of the Asturian kingdom and have been an important reference for pilgrims who began their journey in Oviedo. The Holy Chamber is a <\/span><b>pre-Romanesque building<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> from the 9th century, built as a palace chapel by Alfonso II the Chaste.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In addition to the crosses, it houses other significant relics such as the <\/span><b>Holy Ark<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and the <\/span><b>Holy Shroud<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. Access to this underground chapel is a must-see during your visit to the cathedral, offering a unique spiritual and cultural experience.<\/span><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h2><b>Connection with the Primitivo Way of Santiago<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The Primitivo Way starts at the Cathedral of San Salvador in Oviedo, following the route that King Alfonso II used to visit the recently discovered tomb of the Apostle Santiago. Unlike the French Way, this option is <\/span><b>physically more demanding<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, but offers stunning landscapes and a less crowded atmosphere.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you are looking for an authentic experience and want to connect with the original history of the Way, this is a great choice. The Primitivo Way spans approximately <\/span><b>325 kilometres<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, divided into several stages. It is an ideal alternative for those who want a quieter experience in touch with nature.<\/span><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h2><b>Elements you can\u2019t miss during your visit<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-118523 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.mundiplus.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Cruz-de-la-Victoria-Mundiplus.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"576\" height=\"1024\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.mundiplus.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Cruz-de-la-Victoria-Mundiplus.jpg 576w, https:\/\/www.mundiplus.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Cruz-de-la-Victoria-Mundiplus-169x300.jpg 169w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 576px) 100vw, 576px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In addition to its historical importance, the cathedral houses details that deserve attention. The Baroque chapels, such as the one dedicated to <\/span><b>Our Lady of the Chaste King<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, are prime examples of Baroque art. The Gothic sculptures in the cloister and the main altarpiece are essential.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The <\/span><b>Holy Shroud of Oviedo<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, preserved in the Holy Chamber, is a relic of great religious significance. Every element within the temple has a story to tell, making the visit a valuable cultural and spiritual experience.<\/span><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h2><b>The role of the Cathedral in Oviedo&#8217;s culture<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The Cathedral of San Salvador has become a prominent landmark in the life of the city of Oviedo. It serves as a <\/span><b>venue for important religious celebrations<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and is a place where tourists and locals coexist seamlessly.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The square surrounding it serves as a meeting point, with bars and cafes around, perfect for taking a break before continuing to explore the city.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Oviedo, with its calm and welcoming atmosphere, is a perfect place to <\/span><b>start a pilgrimage or discover its rich heritage<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. The cathedral has been a significant source of inspiration for artists and writers.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Its history intertwines with the life of the city, making it a <\/span><b>cultural and religious emblem of Asturias<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. Its spiritual and social importance makes it an essential destination for any visitor.<\/span><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h2><b>Plan your visit with useful information<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you decide to visit the Cathedral of San Salvador, there are a few things you should consider. The <\/span><b>opening hours<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> vary depending on the season, so it\u2019s advisable to check in advance. However, as a general guide, we can tell you that the opening hours are: <\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">From 10 to 13 and from 16 to 18, Monday to Friday.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">From 16 to 17 on Saturdays.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Access to the Holy Chamber is <\/span><b>included in the general guided tours<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, so keep that in mind when organising your visit. Also, if you plan to start the Primitivo Way, here <\/span><b>you can obtain your pilgrim credential<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, an essential document for those wishing to complete the route.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Remember that tourist visits are not allowed on Sundays, so it\u2019s important to schedule your visit on weekdays to fully enjoy the tour.<\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>You arrive in Oviedo and walk through its streets until you reach a square. Here, you encounter a majestic structure. This is not just any temple, but the imposing Cathedral of San Salvador, a place with over a thousand years of history and the starting point of the Primitivo Way. This route, chosen by King [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":118530,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[538,541,536,534],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-118560","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-historia-en","category-sitios-iconicos-en","category-camino-a-pie-en","category-blog"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.mundiplus.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/118560","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.mundiplus.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.mundiplus.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.mundiplus.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.mundiplus.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=118560"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.mundiplus.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/118560\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.mundiplus.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/118530"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.mundiplus.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=118560"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.mundiplus.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=118560"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.mundiplus.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=118560"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}