Narcea

Narcea may refer to two related geographical entities in the autonomous community of Asturias, Spain: the Río Narcea, a major river in western Asturias, and the municipality of Cangas del Narcea, which lies along the river in the Narcea valley.

Río Narcea is a river that flows generally westward across the region, receiving water from numerous tributaries before it joins the Navia River and continues to the Atlantic Ocean. The river’s valley has supported settlements and agricultural activity for centuries and helps shape the western Asturian landscape.

Cangas del Narcea is a municipality in Asturias named after the Narcea River. It is situated in the Narcea valley and includes rural towns and natural areas along the river. The municipality lies near the Las Fuentes del Narcea, Degaña e Ibias Natural Park, a protected area known for forests, wildlife, and scenic landscapes.

The Narcea region has a historically mixed economy, with mining, forestry, and agriculture playing traditional roles. In recent decades, rural development and eco-tourism have become more prominent, supported by protected areas, cultural heritage, and mountain tourism. The area is also associated with Asturian cultural traditions and architecture found in its villages and historic parish churches.