🏞 Cangas de Onís, the heart of the Sella River and gateway to the Picos de Europa
The municipality of Cangas de Onís, located in eastern Asturias, borders Parres and Ribadesella to the north, Onís and Llanes to the east, Amieva and Parres to the west, and the province of León to the south. It is a land full of history, nature, and culture.
Cangas de Onís is synonymous with the Sella River, but also with Covadonga, the Picos de Europa, the Enol Lakes, the Dobra River, the Church of Santa Cruz, and the iconic Roman Bridge that rises over the Sella.
🌉 The Roman Bridge over the Sella River
Although popularly known as Roman, the Bridge of Cangas de Onís is actually a medieval construction from the reign of Alfonso XI of Castile. It is characterized by its large raised central arch flanked by two smaller, uneven arches. The original bridge had seven arches and has been restored on various occasions. Notable works took place in 1876, 1940, and 1943, with the especially iconic addition in 1939 of the Victory Cross in its central arch, a symbol of Asturias.
From this bridge, you can enjoy some of the most iconic views of the Sella River, making it an essential spot for visitors and pilgrims.
⛪ Church of Santa Cruz
This church was commissioned by King Favila, the second Asturian monarch and son of Don Pelayo, along with his wife Queen Froiluba, both of whom are buried inside. Originally, it housed the Victory Cross, made from the oak cross that Pelayo carried in the Battle of Covadonga. Today it is one of the most representative places of worship in Asturian history.
🌊 The Sella River, soul of the municipality
The Sella River runs through Cangas de Onís and separates it from the neighboring municipality of Parres. Its fresh, clean waters feed numerous salmon pools and provide a natural habitat for emblematic species like the Atlantic salmon. It’s an ideal place for walking, fishing, or simply enjoying the landscape.
🎉 Traditional festivals of Cangas de Onís
Cangas de Onís proudly celebrates its traditions and popular festivities, many of them connected to its natural and religious heritage:
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Auction of the Sella’s First Salmon (Campanu) (last Sunday of April): symbolic start of the fishing season.
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Picos de Europa Cheese Competition (October 12).
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Shepherd’s Festival (July 25 in Vega de Enol).
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San Antonio Festival (June 13).
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Justo and Pastor (August 6 in La Riera).
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La Magdalena (July 22 in Gamonedo).
🧭 What else to see in Cangas de Onís?
On our website you can discover more about:
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Hiking routes along the Dobra River or the Sella
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