When people think about Spain, they think of its beaches, flamenco and paella. But Spain is much more than the Mediterranean and the South. The northen area has an extremly rich culture, stunning nature and delicious traditional cuisine. A great example is Astorga, in the region of León. Astorga is situated in the northwest of Spain and receives most of its tourists from the Camino de Santiago since it passes by this beautiful city. However, it's not necessary to be doing the Camino to discover this town. Astorga is ideal for a day trip from León or as a part of a road trip.
A LITTLE BACKGROUND...
The city of Astorga was founded by Caesar Augustus, and it has been a transit point since its foundation. The most relevant and iconic building is Palacio Episcopal, created by the architect of la Sagrada Familia in Barcelona (Spain). But this city is also famous for its gastronomy. The Cocido Maragato (Maragato stew), the cecina (dry meat similar to the internationally famous jamón), its pastries and chocolate are a big part of the city's identity.
For those wondering what "Maragato" is, Astorga is located in a historical region called Maragateria. People originally from this region were called Maragatos (men) and Maragatas (women) and were a small ethnic group with a unique culture. Nowadays, this term refers to things, traditions and foods typical of the area, like the stew.
WHAT TO DO IN ASTORGA
After my delightful visit to this town, I have designed the perfect guide to get the most out of Astorga.
I arrived in Astorga early in the morning, and the first place I visited was this bar to have breakfast. The hot chocolate was sublime, with a velvety texture and not too sweet nor bitter. In the room next to the bar they have a small exhibition of posters and boxes from chocolate brands such as Lindt and Cadbury,
Bishop JB Grau Vallespinós asked the architect Antoni Gaudí, both natives of Reus (Spain), to rebuild the episcopal palace after being burnt. Gaudí agreed to do the project but later abandoned it while the building was still in construction due to the bishop's premature death. However, the palace was eventually completed and now houses a museum with art pieces from churches from the area, the rooms of the bishop's residence and an exhibition of Gaudí and the story of the building. Being one of the four buildings from Gaudí outside Catalunya, it’s worth visiting to contemplate this amazing creation of the famous architect.
Next to the Episcopal palace is the cathedral. It was built from the 15th to the 18th century. It has Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque elements, and the most relevant feature is its Baroque front facade.
As in many cities in Spain, the Mayor Square of Astorga has arcades and is predominated by the Town Hall. Like the cathedral’s facade, this facade is also baroque. Look out at the top of the building. In the middle tower next to the bell, there are two figures of “Maragatos” wearing their traditional costumes.
This restaurant is the most famous. Since I'm vegetarian, I couldn't try it, but I have eaten meats from the area in the past and I can asure they are delicious,
What many people don't know about this town (including myself before planning my visit) is that Astorga was a relevant chocolate producer from the 18th to the 20th centuries. To honour the importance that chocolate had, there is a museum located in a modernist palace that was originally a chocolate factory. It explains how chocolate has traditionally been made in the area and its impact on the city and other industries like marketing and printing. In the end, there is a little chocolate tasting. For people not speaking Spanish, it is worth noting that the posters are in Spanish, but each room has flyers with information in other languages.
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Don't forget...
Astorga is also traditionally known for its pastries. "Mantecados" and "Hojaldres" are the most popular. Here are the best places to buy them:
For sweet-tooth people (like me), I recommend a third and more unique pastry. Head to Confitería Flor y Nata to try merles. Only found in this bakery, these are puff-pastry tarts filled with custard made from eggs, sugar and margarine. My favourite ones without a doubt!
I stayed overnight in the city, and the best hotel I found quality-price was this one. Perfectly located in front of the Episcopal Palace, its rooms are big and comfortable beds. I luckily got upgraded to a room with a view to the Episcopal Palace. There was nothing better than getting up to the beautiful building.
Hey there! I'm Maria and I love solo traveling! I have travelled around my home country, Spain and other European countries like Italy and France. Before travelling, I carefully plan my itinerary. My guides are based on my own experience, so I know I'm offering the best experiences possible. Enjoy.
