Asturian Prehistoric Archaeology
Evidence of human presence in Asturias goes back to the early Palaeolithic period around 100.000BC. From a touristic point of the view some of the most appreciated evidence of this human presence is the Palaeolithic art dating from 35,000 to 4,000 B.C. Original paintings can still be seen in the spectacular caves of Tito Bustillo at Ribadesella and smaller examples in the caves of El Buxu and El Pindal. The Neo cave in Altamira (Cantabria) has very good replicate paintings, as the original paintings can no longer be visited by the general public.
In Asturias there are the remnants of various hill forts or "Castros" from the Iron Age, The Castro de Coaño is a magnificent example and well worth a visit if you are in the area.
Finally there are various tombs and dolmens in Asturias, which can be visited.
CAVE PAINTINGS
- Cueva de Tito Bustillo
Ribadesella.
Tel 985 861120
Normally open from Easter till 10th September.
Visits very limited and reservation is necessary at weekends an in July and August
Reservations by Internet: www.tematico.princast.es/cultura/yacimientos/index.html
Open Wednesday to Sunday 10.00 to 16.00
Entrance free on Wednesdays, Shut Mondays and Tuesdays
- Cueva del Buxu
Cardes, Cangas de Onis
Tel 608 175467
Visits very limited and reservation is necessary.
Open Wednesday to Sunday 09.30 to 15.00
Entrance free on Wednesdays
Shut Mondays and Tuesdays
- Cueva del Pindal
Pimango, Ribadeva
Tel 608 175284
Open Wednesday to Sunday 10.00 to 14.00 and 15.30 to 19.00
HILL FORTS
- Castro de Coaño y Aula Didactica
Villacondide, Coaña
Tel 985 978401
Open Tuesday to Sunday 11.00 to 14.00 and 16.00 to 19.00
Entrance free on Wednesdays
Shut Mondays
TOMBS AND IDOLS
- Idolo de Peña Tu
Puerto de Vidiago, Llanes
Tel 985 411166
Free access all days of the year.
- Dolmen De La Santa Cruz
Cangas de Onis
Tel 985 848005
Open Wednesday to Sunday 10.00 to 13.00 and 15.00 to 18.30
Entrance free
Shut Mondays and Tuesdays.