Known as the ‘Boulevard of Cider,’ Calle Gascona is a vibrant and lively street in Oviedo, Spain. This unique location offers an authentic taste of Asturian culture, with its numerous sidrerías (cider bars) serving locally produced cider and traditional Spanish food. From historical significance to modern-day charm, Calle Gascona is a must-visit destination for any traveler exploring northern Spain.
A Glimpse into History
Calle Gascona’s history dates back to medieval times when it was one of the main streets in Oviedo’s old town. It was originally named after a nobleman from the Gascony region in France who settled here during the Middle Ages. Over time, this historic street has seen many transformations – from being a residential area for nobility to becoming the heart of Oviedo’s gastronomic scene today.
The Boulevard of Cider
Today, Calle Gascona is famous across Spain as ‘El Bulevar de la Sidra’ or ‘The Boulevard of Cider’. This name reflects its central role in promoting Asturias’ most iconic drink – cider. The boulevard boasts more than 30 sidrerías where you can experience the traditional way of pouring and drinking this regional beverage. As you walk down this bustling street, you’ll see locals skillfully pouring cider from above their heads into glasses held below waist level without looking – an art form known as escanciar.
An Authentic Culinary Experience
Besides its renowned cider houses, Calle Gascona also prides itself on offering an array of delicious local cuisine that perfectly complements your glass (or bottle) of crisp apple cider. You’ll find everything from hearty fabada asturiana (a rich bean stew), to a variety of seafood dishes and the famous Cabrales cheese. The street is also home to several annual food festivals, including the Fiesta de la Sidra Natural in August, which celebrates Asturias’ cider-making heritage.
Cultural Significance
More than just a hub for gastronomy, Calle Gascona holds an important place in Oviedo’s cultural landscape. It is located within walking distance from some of the city’s most notable landmarks such as the Cathedral of San Salvador and Campoamor Theatre. This proximity makes it an ideal spot for locals and tourists alike to unwind after a day of sightseeing.
A Vibrant Atmosphere
The charm of Calle Gascona lies not only in its history or offerings but also in its vibrant atmosphere. With tables spilling out onto the cobbled streets under strings of fairy lights, this pedestrianized zone exudes a warm and welcoming vibe that invites you to sit down, relax and soak up the lively spirit around you.
Plan Your Visit
If you’re planning a trip to Oviedo, make sure Calle Gascona is on your itinerary! Whether you’re interested in history, culture or food – or simply want to experience something uniquely Spanish – there’s no better place than this charming boulevard. Remember that sidrerías are busiest during meal times (around 1-3pm for lunch; 8-11pm for dinner). So if you prefer quieter moments while savoring your cider and tapas, plan accordingly!
In conclusion, Calle Gascona offers visitors more than just great food and drink – it provides an authentic immersion into Asturian life with all its traditions intact. A visit here guarantees unforgettable memories filled with laughter, camaraderie, delicious flavors – all against the backdrop of Oviedo’s rich history.
Frequently asked questions
What is Calle Gascona and why is it famous?
Calle Gascona, also known as the “Boulevard of Cider,” is a popular street in Oviedo, Spain. It’s renowned for its vibrant atmosphere and concentration of sidrerías (cider houses), making it the heart of Asturian cider culture. Visitors can enjoy traditional Asturian cuisine while participating in the unique local tradition of cider pouring, or escanciado. The street itself exudes an old-world charm with its cobblestone paving and historic buildings.
How can I get to Calle Gascona?
Calle Gascona is located in central Oviedo, within walking distance from many city attractions like San Francisco Park or Cathedral Square. If you’re using public transportation, several bus lines stop near Calle Gascona including line 1, 2, 10 among others depending on your starting point. For those driving into the city, there are numerous parking garages nearby such as El Carbonero or Parking Salesas.
What kind of food and drink specialties can I find at Calle Gascona?
The main culinary attraction at Calle Gascona is undoubtedly Asturian cider which has been produced in this region for centuries using traditional methods. Alongside this iconic beverage, visitors will find plenty of local dishes to savor such as fabada asturiana (a hearty bean stew), cachopo (breaded meat filled with ham and cheese), pote asturiano (another type of stew) among others. Seafood lovers should try calamares a la romana or merluza a la sidra – squid rings fried in batter or hake cooked in cider respectively.
Are there any special events that take place on Calle Gascona?
Yes, Calle Gascona hosts various events throughout the year that celebrate Asturian culture. One of the most popular is the Sidra Festival in May, where visitors can sample different ciders and enjoy live music and traditional dance performances. There’s also Desarme, a local holiday celebrated every October 19th featuring a special menu of garbanzos con bacalao y espinacas (chickpeas with cod and spinach), callos (tripe) and arroz con leche (rice pudding).
What are some nearby attractions to visit after exploring Calle Gascona?
Calle Gascona’s central location makes it an excellent starting point for exploring Oviedo’s other attractions. Nearby you’ll find the historic Old Town with its medieval streets, Gothic cathedral, and charming plazas. The Archaeological Museum of Asturias is also within walking distance, offering insight into the region’s rich history from prehistoric times to present day. For art enthusiasts, The Fine Arts Museum of Asturias houses an impressive collection including works by El Greco, Goya and Picasso.
