In Cornellana, the history of the Monastery of San Salvador and riverside routes are distinct themes. The Camino Primitivo passes through the town; the Sendero del SalmĂłn PR-AS 128 goes past the monastery and follows the RĂo Narcea. This makes it possible to explore Cornellana through its connections to the pilgrimage route, its architectural history and its riverside landscape, without treating the two routes as one and the same.
Monastery of San Salvador: History and Architecture
The Monastery of San Salvador de Cornellana was founded in 1024 by Infanta Cristina, daughter of King Bermudo II and Queen Velasquita. After her husband Ordoño died, she withdrew to the monastery. Its early history is therefore connected with a named founder and her life story. The monastery traditionally had a pilgrims’ hostel, which was mentioned as early as the late 15th century.
The monastery church is a Romanesque building that was renovated in the second half of the 17th century. Its floor plan follows that of a three-aisled basilica with a three-part apse. Other features include a two-storey, square side-tower structure and cruciform pillars. The church and the adjoining monastery together form the architectural ensemble. The three aisles divide the church interior; the apse, tower structure and pillars add further defining architectural features.
The Camino Primitivo passes through Cornellana, where the monastery is located. Since 2015, the monastery has been included on the UNESCO World Heritage List as an element associated with the Camino Primitivo. The connection to the pilgrimage route and the architectural history thus represent two distinct aspects of the town: the route through Cornellana and the historic ensemble of church and monastery.
Sendero del SalmĂłn and the Landscape of the Narcea
The Sendero del SalmĂłn PR-AS 128 follows the RĂo Narcea from the La Rodriga recreation area to Bárcena and passes through Cornellana by the monastery. Part of the route runs through the RĂo Narcea Special Area of Conservation in the Natura 2000 network. The route also passes through river landscapes and by the Las Mestas salmon reserve. These stops connect the route’s riverside setting with the protected area and the theme of salmon. Check local conditions before hiking.
La Rodriga is a specific point of reference: the recreation area is located in Cornellana, in the valley of the Nonaya, and offers green spaces and places to rest. If these facilities are important to your plans, check their current condition before visiting.
A road cycling route also passes through Cornellana: the Camino Primitivo from Oviedo/UviĂ©u to Tineo runs through Corniana/Cornellana. Check route conditions and practical rideability before setting out by bike. The RĂo Narcea near Cornellana is considered a valued fishing river for salmon. Seasonal rules and permitted sections may change; check the current regulations before fishing.
Fishing and Nature at CAPENASTUR
CAPENASTUR, a fishing and nature fair, is held in Cornellana. It includes displays of fishing equipment, nature exhibits, workshops and activities related to the river environment and the natural surroundings of the municipality. The Subasta del Campanu, the auction of the first salmon of the season, is also part of the fair. Check the dates and program for the relevant edition before visiting, as the program may vary.
Where to Stay in Cornellana
The Cornellana pilgrims’ hostel is next to the monastery, has 24 beds and is open year-round. As capacity and operating status may change, check current availability and opening status when planning your trip. This gives you a specific accommodation option in town, while the themes of monastic history, the pilgrimage route and the riverside landscape also shape the character of your stay.
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