Cueva de la Santina Guide
Cueva de la Santina: A Sanctuary Carved in Stone Guide
Nestled within the heart of the Picos de Europa mountains in Covadonga, Spain, lies the Cueva de la Santina, a sacred cave that houses the revered image of the Virgin of Covadonga, affectionately known as "La Santina." This breathtaking sanctuary is a must-see for any visitor to the region, offering a unique blend of natural beauty, religious significance, and historical importance. Prepare to be captivated by the serene atmosphere and the stunning views that surround this remarkable site. The history of the Cueva de la Santina is deeply intertwined with the origins of the Kingdom of Asturias. Legend has it that in 722 AD, during the Battle of Covadonga, Pelagius, the leader of the Asturian resistance, sought refuge in this very cave with his troops. It is said that the Virgin Mary appeared to him, promising victory against the invading Moorish forces. This victory is considered the starting point of the Reconquista, the centuries-long Christian reconquest of the Iberian Peninsula. The original wooden image of the Virgin was replaced with a silver one in the 16th century, which was then destroyed during a fire in 1777. The current image, a wooden sculpture adorned with jewels, dates back to the 18th century. Visitors to the Cueva de la Santina can participate in several activities. The most common is to simply admire the cave itself and the image of the Virgin. You can light a candle, offer a prayer, and soak in the spiritual atmosphere. A visit to the nearby Basilica of Covadonga, a magnificent neo-Romanesque church, is also highly recommended. The surrounding area offers excellent hiking opportunities, allowing you to explore the stunning natural beauty of the Picos de Europa National Park. While there isn't a specific culinary tradition directly linked to the Cueva, the region is known for its hearty Asturian cuisine, including fabada asturiana (bean stew) and cachopo (breaded beef steak).
Transportation
The easiest way to reach Covadonga is by car. There is parking available near the Basilica. During peak season (summer and holidays), access to Covadonga by private car is restricted. You will need to park in designated areas further down the mountain and take a shuttle bus (paid service) to the Sanctuary. ALSA buses also run from major cities in Asturias, such as Oviedo and Gijón, to Cangas de Onís, the nearest town to Covadonga. From Cangas de Onís, you can take a local bus or taxi to Covadonga.