Asturias

Asturias is an autonomous community in the north of Spain. It is known for its rugged coast, mountains, religious sites and medieval architecture. Asturias is bordered by the Cantabrian Sea in the north, and the autonomous communities of Cantabria, Castile and León, and Galicia in the east, south, and west respectively.

Geography

Asturias is characterized by its rugged landscape, with the Cantabrian Mountains to the south and the Cantabrian Sea to the north. The region is known for its diverse ecosystems, which include coastal areas, rivers, forests, and mountains.

History

Asturias has a rich history dating back to prehistoric times. The region was inhabited by the Astures, a Celtic tribe, before it was conquered by the Roman Empire. After the fall of the Roman Empire, Asturias became a kingdom under the Visigoths. In the 8th century, it became the first Christian kingdom to free itself from Muslim rule, marking the beginning of the Reconquista.

Culture

Asturian culture is a blend of its Celtic, Roman, and Christian influences. The region is known for its bagpipe music, traditional dances, and festivals such as the Fiesta de la Ascensión and the Fiesta de San Mateo. Asturias is also home to the Asturian language, which is recognized as a co-official language along with Spanish.

Economy

The economy of Asturias is diverse, with sectors such as industry, agriculture, and services contributing to its GDP. The region is known for its mining industry, particularly coal mining. In recent years, there has been a shift towards a more service-based economy, with tourism playing a significant role.

Cuisine

Asturian cuisine is known for its hearty dishes and quality ingredients. The region is famous for its fabada, a bean stew with sausage and pork, and its cider, which is traditionally poured from a height to aerate it. Other notable dishes include Cabrales cheese, a strong blue cheese, and casadielles, a sweet pastry filled with nuts and anise.

See also

• History of Spain
• Autonomous communities of Spain
• Cuisine of Spain