While the University of Oviedo may have been established in 1608, it is definitely not stuck in the past. Today, the university is a place of research across 38 departments including engineering, earth science and the humanities. Visit its main campus in the center of town, one of seven campuses spread across Spain.
Philip III, a Spanish ruler, issued the charter for the university in 1604, and the doors finally opened to students 4 years later. In those days, there were just three areas of study: art, theology and law. Learn about the French invasion of Spain in 1807 when you visit. It caused the university to be shut down and used by French troops.
Today, the university campus is a blend of the old and the new. Wander the main halls to discover artifacts from the Spanish Civil War and other important moments in the past. Don’t be afraid to stop to ask the passing students what they’re studying. You may find they are researching innovative technologies or studying a wide array of arts and humanities subjects.
The most recognized building in the central campus is the original university building, a classic example of 16th-century Spanish architecture. Spend time roaming the courtyard and running your hands over the cool stone blocks of the façade. Look up to see the clock tower in one of the corners, built by Luis Céspedes in 1859.
Other details to notice in the original building are the decorative triglyphs and the coat of arms of Archbishop Fernando de Valdés Salas, who came up with the plan for the university. Peek into the central library, where most of the university’s books are housed.
Access to the public parts of the University of Oviedo is free, and the university is open Monday to Saturday from September to June and Monday to Friday in July and August.
