Asturian facts for kids
Asturian refers to things connected to Asturias, a special region in northern Spain. It can also mean the Asturian language, which is spoken there.
Contents
What is Asturias?
Asturias is an autonomous community in Spain. This means it is like a state or province with its own government and special powers. It is located on the northern coast of Spain, facing the Bay of Biscay.
Geography of Asturias
Asturias is known for its beautiful and varied landscape.
- Mountains: The region is home to the stunning Picos de Europa mountain range. These tall, jagged peaks are popular for hiking and climbing.
- Green Valleys: Between the mountains and the coast, you will find lush green valleys and forests. This is why Asturias is often called "Green Spain."
- Coastline: The Asturian coast is rugged and dramatic, with many cliffs, hidden coves, and sandy beaches.
Capital City of Asturias
The capital city of Asturias is Oviedo. It is the largest city in the region and an important center for culture and history. Other important cities include Gijón, a major port city, and Avilés, known for its industrial heritage.
A Brief History of Asturias
Asturias has a rich history.
- Ancient Kingdom: It was once the Kingdom of Asturias, which played a big role in the early history of Spain.
- Reconquista: Many historians believe the "Reconquista," a long period when Christian kingdoms took back land from Moorish rule, began in Asturias.
- Industrial Past: In more recent times, Asturias was an important area for mining coal and producing steel. This helped Spain grow as a country.
Culture and Traditions in Asturias
Asturian culture is unique and vibrant.
- Food and Drink: Asturias is famous for its delicious food.
- Cider (Sidra): A traditional apple cider is very popular. It is poured from a height to create bubbles and improve its taste.
- Fabada Asturiana: This is a hearty bean stew with different meats, perfect for the cooler climate.
- Music: Traditional Asturian music often features the gaita, which is a type of bagpipe.
- Festivals: Throughout the year, there are many local festivals celebrating saints, harvests, and historical events.
Nature and Wildlife in Asturias
Asturias is a paradise for nature lovers.
- Picos de Europa National Park: This national park is shared with other regions and is home to amazing wildlife. You might spot Cantabrian brown bears or wolves, though they are shy.
- Coastal Beauty: The coastline offers stunning views and opportunities for surfing, exploring caves, and enjoying the sea.
What is the Asturian Language?
The Asturian language is a Romance language. This means it developed from Latin, just like Spanish, Portuguese, French, and Italian. It is also known as Bable.
Where is Asturian Spoken?
Asturian is mainly spoken in the region of Asturias. It is also spoken in some small areas outside Asturias, like parts of León and Zamora in Spain, and even a small part of Portugal.
Importance of the Asturian Language
While Asturian is not an official language of Spain, it is protected by the Asturian government. This means there are efforts to keep the language alive and encourage people to learn and use it.
- Cultural Heritage: For many people in Asturias, the language is an important part of their identity and cultural heritage.
- Education: It is taught in some schools in Asturias, helping younger generations connect with their roots.
- Literature: There are writers and poets who create works in Asturian, contributing to its ongoing development.
Learning a few words in Asturian can be a fun way to connect with the culture:
- Hola: Hello
- Gracies: Thank you
- Guapu/Guapa: Beautiful (masculine/feminine)
See Also
