Asturias Day

What Is Asturias Day?

Asturias Day, officially known as Día de Asturias, is an annual regional public holiday observed on 8 September in the Principality of Asturias, Spain. This day is dedicated to the Virgin of Covadonga, also referred to as ‘La Santina’, who is the patron saint of the region. It serves as a significant occasion for the people of Asturias to honour their distinct cultural identity, history, and traditions.

The observance encompasses both religious solemnities and various secular festivities across the principality. It is a time for communal celebration, reflecting on the historical importance of the region and its unique heritage within Spain. The holiday underscores the deep connection between the Asturian people and their historical roots.

History and Origins of Asturias Day

The origins of Asturias Day are deeply intertwined with the historical narrative of the region, particularly the figure of the Virgin of Covadonga. The date 8 September corresponds to the liturgical feast day of ‘La Santina’, whose veneration traces back to the 8th century. Tradition holds that the Virgin Mary intervened in the Battle of Covadonga in 722 AD, aiding King Pelayo and his forces in their victory against the Muslim invaders. This event is often cited as the beginning of the Reconquista, the Christian reconquest of the Iberian Peninsula.

The Sanctuary of Covadonga, nestled in the Picos de Europa mountains, became a focal point for devotion to the Virgin. Over centuries, the reverence for ‘La Santina’ grew, becoming a cornerstone of Asturian identity. The official designation of 8 September as Asturias Day was established by Royal Decree 17/1984, following the creation of the Principality of Asturias as an autonomous community. This legislative act formally recognised the long-standing cultural and historical significance of the date for the region.

How Asturias Day Is Celebrated

Asturias Day is marked by a blend of religious observance and widespread cultural festivities across the Principality. The central event is typically the pilgrimage to the Sanctuary of Covadonga, where thousands gather to attend a solemn mass and pay homage to the Virgin. Many pilgrims undertake the journey on foot, a demonstration of devotion.

Throughout Asturias, towns and villages host various cultural events. These often include parades featuring traditional Asturian costumes, displays of Asturian folk music with bagpipes (gaita) and drums, and performances of regional dances. Sporting events, craft markets, and open-air concerts are also common. Families and communities often gather for elaborate meals, showcasing Asturian gastronomy. Dishes such as fabada asturiana (bean stew) and cachopo (fried veal dish) are popular, often accompanied by the region’s traditional cider, poured in a specific high-arc manner known as escanciado. The atmosphere is generally one of communal joy and pride in Asturian heritage.

When Is Asturias Day?

Asturias Day is observed annually on a fixed date: 8 September. This date remains constant each year, regardless of the day of the week on which it falls.

As a regional public holiday, Asturias Day is recognised throughout the entire Principality of Asturias. This means that government offices, schools, and most businesses within the region close for the day, allowing residents to participate in the celebrations and traditions associated with the holiday.

Asturias Day Key Facts