In the middle of Oviedo’s Old Town is a charming rectangular square, Plaza del Fontán, that serves as a meeting spot for locals and tourists alike. It is also a hub for street performers. Be sure to come here hungry, as the area is known for its outdoor market stalls and fresh fruits and vegetables.
To understand the plaza’s history, you would need to also understand the plaza’s name. The word “fontán” translates to “source spring.” Back when Oviedo was a smaller city, this source spring created a natural lagoon on the outskirts of town and acted as a recreational area for the wealthy. Look for the lagoon today and you won’t find it – unsanitary conditions led to it being dried up and turned into a fountain.
Visit Plaza del Fontán on a market day to browse the colorful stalls in the Mercado El Fontán. The atmosphere is friendly and relaxed, making it a great time to try out your Spanish with the vendors and taste-test the local delicacies, including meats, fish, cheeses and fruit.
The indoor shops around the market also include gourmet food experiences, as well as cafés and restaurants. Order a glass of “sidra” (cider) and watch the way the waiter pours the drink from high in the air to get the perfect frothiness.
Plan your stop here to fall on the weekend and you may just see musical performances take place across the square. Listen to the bagpipe players fill the area with their booming sounds. Delight in the spectacle of the dancers dressed up in authentic Spanish costumes as they move their bodies in time to the music.
There is no charge to enter Plaza del Fontán and take in the atmosphere, as it is a public city space. Wear your best walking shoes, as you will want to explore the area surrounding the square on foot to see all of its winding alleys.
