Astorga’s history can be explored through archaeological traces, buildings, museum collections and local specialties. A guided Roman Route, the Palacio de Gaudí and the municipality’s cuisine each offer a different focus.

Roman traces in the historic centre

The Roman Route is a guided tour of archaeological remains preserved in Astorga’s historic centre. It starts at the Roman Museum and continues through the historic centre. One of its destinations is a section of the moat that formed part of the defensive system of the Legio X Gemina camp. The route thus connects the urban landscape with a specific element of the camp’s fortifications.

The Roman Museum houses finds from archaeological excavations in Astorga and the surrounding area. It also displays Pompeian wall paintings discovered by José María Luengo. The museum is located in a vaulted portico traditionally known as the “Ergástula”. This portico was part of a building in the centre of the ancient city’s forum. The finds, wall paintings and location of the museum each offer a different perspective on Astorga’s Roman history.

Palace, architecture and museums

The Palacio de Gaudí is a Neo-Gothic building with features reminiscent of a castle, an aristocratic residence and a temple. Since 1964, it has housed the Museo de los Caminos. A panoramic lift provides access to the Palacio Escondido and to all four terraces of the Palacio de Gaudí. Here, the architecture and use as a museum are closely connected within the same building.

The Cathedral Museum includes the Arqueta de San Genadio, an example of 10th-century Asturian pre-Romanesque goldsmithing. This object offers a distinct perspective on historical craftsmanship and differs in subject from the Roman finds and the architecture of the Palacio de Gaudí.

The Museo del Chocolate documents Astorga’s chocolate industry from the 18th to the 20th century and the transition from artisan production to mechanisation. It is housed in an elegant early 20th-century mansion. This served as the home, warehouse and factory of chocolatier Magín Rubio. The museum’s exhibits are thus complemented by the history of the building and its former uses.

Festivals and culinary traditions

Astorga’s Semana Santa has been documented since the 16th century. In 2011, it was designated a Festival of National Tourist Interest. These two facts highlight different points in time: a long documented history and a specific, more recent award.

The Astures y Romanos programme includes historical reenactments at various locations around the city. These include a Roman circus, the reception of Caesar, a victory procession, a Roman market and Asturian-Roman cuisine days. Specific programme events may vary. It is therefore worth checking the dates and programme for each event when planning a visit.

Local cuisine also offers a range of ways to explore the area. The first written mention of Mantecadas de Astorga dates to 1805. With Cocido Maragato, the order of serving defines the dish: first, seven kinds of meat are served, followed by chickpeas and, finally, soup and dessert. You can sample Cocido Maragato and other local specialties at restaurants in the municipality of Astorga. A historical reference and a dish with a clearly defined sequence thus offer two different ways to explore the local cuisine.

Discover more destinations: Castrillo De Los Polvazares, Toreno, Valdealcón, El Burgo Ranero, Carracedelo, Salamón, Almazcara, Sopeña de Carneros.

For the broader travel overview: León.