Puntos de Interés
Municipality
Grandas
Grandas is the capital of the Grandas de Salime council, situated within the Western Region of the Principality of Asturias. The name "Grandas de Salime" has its roots in Palaeo-European origins, bearing significance related to the current and flowing water.
Comprising a total of 7 parishes—Grandas de Salime, La Mesa, Negueira, Peñafuente, Trabada, Villarpedre, and Vitos—the town boasts a rich history. Evidence of its ancient past is reflected in numerous tombs remains, axes, humanoid sculptures, and bowls discovered in locales such as Chao de Cereixeira, the peak of La Cancela, and Monte Bornela. Notably, the now-destroyed Chao Sanmartín castro, devastated by an earthquake in the 2nd century, remains a historical gem.
The Roman influence in Grandas emerged as they were drawn to the abundant gold deposits found in the region. Throughout the Middle Ages, the area was shaped by the influence of the Villanueva de Oscos monastery.
Grandas' economy is based on the primary sector, with livestock farming being the predominant activity. In recent years, the cultivation of blueberries has seen growth. Rural tourism is burgeoning, attracting visitors with the leisure opportunities offered by the Salime Reservoir on the Navia River.
At the heart of the village stands the parish church of San Salvador de Grandas, featuring a preserved Romanesque doorway despite renovations in the 17th, 18th, and 19th centuries. The church's semicircular archivolts rest on imposts adorned with plant motifs, surrounded by a portico with semicircular arches. Inside, an altarpiece by artist Juan de Castro adds to its artistic charm.
Grandas showcases several notable buildings, including the 19th-century rectory house, the 18th-century Roman house, the Magadán house, and the Rubiero house. The Ethnographic Museum of Grandas de Salime, housed in the old rectory, provides insight into traditional Asturian instruments and rural life.
The town's festive calendar includes celebrations such as Nuestra Señora del Carmen on July 2 and 3, San Salvador on the first weekend of August, and the Fiesta de la Sardina (sardine festival) on the last Sunday of the month.