Villaviciosa, Asturias Facts for Kids

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Villaviciosa

Villaviciosa city hall

Flag	Coat of arms

Villaviciosa

Location in Asturias

Villaviciosa

Location in Spain

Country

Spain

Comarca

Gijón

Founded

17 October 1270

Capital

Villaviciosa

Area

• Total

276.23 km² (106.65 sq mi)

Elevation

662 m (2,172 ft)

Population

(2018)

• Total

14,430

• Density

52.239/km² (135.30/sq mi)

Demonym(s)

maliayo/a

Time zone

UTC+1 (CET)

• Summer (DST)

UTC+2 (CEST)

Postal code

33300 and 33310 al 33318

Official language(s)

Spanish

Villaviciosa is a town and municipality in Asturias, Spain. Asturias is one of Spain's autonomous communities. A famous musician, José Ángel Hevia Velasco, was born here. Villaviciosa is well-known for making cider, a popular drink. The town also produces milk and welcomes many tourists. People love to visit for its beautiful nature and beaches.

Geography of Villaviciosa
Population of Villaviciosa
History of Villaviciosa
Parishes of Villaviciosa
Important Buildings in Villaviciosa
Images for kids
See also

Geography of Villaviciosa

Villaviciosa is located on the central eastern coast of Asturias. It shares borders with several other towns. To the west, it borders Gijón and Siero. To the south, it borders Sariego, Nava, Cabranes, and Piloña. To the east, it borders Colunga. The total area of Villaviciosa is about 276 square kilometers.

Population of Villaviciosa

In 2011, Villaviciosa had a population of 14,962 people.

History of Villaviciosa

Early History and Settlements

Long ago, in prehistoric times, many hill forts were built around Villaviciosa. Most of these forts were close to the ria, which is like a river mouth, near Rodiles beach.

During the 8th century, when the Kingdom of Asturias existed, people moved to areas like Amandi, Camoca, and Bedriñana. These places were often mentioned as part of the Maliayo territory.

Growth and Royal Charters

By the 13th century, the area started to grow again. On October 17, 1270, King Alfonso X The Wise signed a document. This document officially allowed people to settle in a place called Buetes. Around the same time, a group of monks called the Cistercian Order built the Monasterio de Santa María de Valdediós in the Boides valley.

Important Royal Visits

In the 16th century, a very important event happened. Holy Roman Emperor Charles V landed in Villaviciosa. He was on his way to Santander but a storm changed his course. He arrived at the port of Tazones and was hosted in the town. This was a big moment in the village's history.

Modern Era and Development

In the 19th century, Villaviciosa faced many attacks. French soldiers occupied the town several times during the Peninsular War. In 1835, the community was officially set up. The town's business grew a lot because of its location on the river. Back then, the river was easy to travel on by boat.