Naranco

Naranco is a geographical area located in Asturias, Spain, renowned for its significant pre-Romanesque architecture. It is situated on the slopes of the Naranco mountain, overlooking the city of Oviedo. The most prominent structures are Santa María del Naranco and San Miguel de Lillo.

Santa María del Naranco, originally built as a royal palace for Ramiro I of Asturias in the 9th century, was later consecrated as a church. It is celebrated for its innovative architectural features, including a barrel-vaulted nave and intricate stone carvings. The building is considered a masterpiece of Asturian pre-Romanesque art and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Adjacent to Santa María del Naranco is San Miguel de Lillo, a smaller church also constructed during the reign of Ramiro I. While originally larger, it has undergone significant alterations over centuries. Nevertheless, it retains important decorative elements and exemplifies the unique architectural style of the Kingdom of Asturias.

The site of Naranco holds immense historical and artistic value, offering a glimpse into the early medieval Christian art and architecture of the Iberian Peninsula. The structures are remarkably well-preserved and continue to attract scholars and tourists alike, highlighting their importance in the history of European art.