Monte Naranco facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Monte Naranco |
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| Highest point | |
| Elevation | 634 m (2,080 ft) |
| Naming | |
| Language of name | Spanish |
| Geography | |
 Monte Naranco
Location in Spain
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| Location | Oviedo, Spain |
| Parent range | Sierra del Naranco |
Monte Naranco is a famous mountain located near the city of Oviedo in Spain. It stands tall at 634 meters (about 2,080 feet) above sea level. This mountain is well-known for its historical buildings and for being a challenging finish line for exciting bicycle races.
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Exploring Monte Naranco
Monte Naranco is part of the Sierra del Naranco mountain range. It offers amazing views of Oviedo and the surrounding countryside. Many people visit the mountain to enjoy nature, hike, or cycle.
Historical Treasures
One of the most important reasons Monte Naranco is famous is because of the ancient buildings on its slopes. The most notable is the church of Santa María del Naranco.
Santa María del Naranco
Santa María del Naranco is a very old building that was originally built in the 9th century. It was first designed as a royal palace or hunting lodge for King Ramiro I of Asturias. Later, it was turned into a church. This building is a great example of pre-Romanesque architecture, which is a style of building from before the Romanesque period. It's so special that it's recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
A Challenge for Cyclists
Monte Naranco is also a popular spot for professional cycling. Its steep slopes make it a tough climb for even the best riders.
Famous Bicycle Races
The mountain is often the finishing point for two major bicycle races:
- Subida al Naranco: This is a one-day professional road bicycle race that takes place in Asturias, Spain. The climb up Monte Naranco is usually the final and most difficult part of the race.
- Vuelta a España: This is one of the three Grand Tours in professional cycling, similar to the Tour de France. The Vuelta a España sometimes includes Monte Naranco as a stage finish, where cyclists battle it out on the steep roads to reach the top. Winning a stage on Monte Naranco is a big achievement for any cyclist.
The Cristo del Naranco Statue
At the very top of Monte Naranco, there is a large statue called El Cristo del Naranco. This statue of Christ the Redeemer overlooks the city of Oviedo. It's a popular landmark and offers a fantastic viewpoint for visitors. Many people hike or drive to the top to see the statue and enjoy the panoramic views.
