As one of Oviedo’s most important squares, Plaza de España should be on every visitor’s itinerary. Uncover its history and the beauty of the nearby park and other relaxing spaces as you take a break in this lovely spot.
Take a seat on a bench next to the fountain in the middle of the square to watch the hustle and bustle of government officials, tourists and local residents as they go about their daily lives. Find some shade on a sunny day under one of the towering trees surrounded by shrubbery and soft grass. Appreciate the different styles of architecture that surround the square.
Today, the area houses government delegations and space for some of the government councils. This wasn’t always the case, however. Look toward San Francisco Street to see where an old hospital and asylum used to sit. The building was completely demolished after the 1936 siege of Oviedo, and in its place is the urbanized area you see today.
Plaza España was meant to be modeled after the Spanish imperial squares, but at its completion in 1970, it was less ornate than had been planned. Notice the gray buildings and stark design. This is characteristic of Spanish 1970s architecture and less like that of the postwar period.
History lovers will be fascinated by some of the public artwork still standing in Plaza de España. Walk up the stairs to the entrance of the square from San Francisco Park and you’ll see a statue of former Spanish dictator Francisco Franco. It is one of the last remaining statues of him and has been subject to graffiti and vandalism over the years.
Explore Plaza de España on foot. Only then will you be able to criss-cross through the pathways and really take in the culture and history to be found here. If you prefer to drive to access the square, there is metered parking available nearby. While the plaza is not a long sightseeing stop in and of itself, its connection to San Francisco Park means you can do both in one day.
