A Roman-era town in northern Spain with a palace designed by Antoni Gaudí, known for its chocolate-making tradition and location on the Camino de Santiago.
In northwestern Spain, Astorga surprises visitors with unexpected architectural treasures. You'll find Antoni Gaudí's Episcopal Palace with its white stone towers, a Gothic cathedral dating back to the 15th century, and ancient Roman thermal baths. The city lies at the meeting point of two major Camino de Santiago routes, while its streets hold centuries-old chocolate-making traditions and distinctive local dishes.
Following the Camino Routes
Two major pilgrimage routes meet in Astorga: the French Way and the Silver Route. You'll find several pilgrim hostels throughout the city, and many businesses cater to modern travelers while maintaining medieval traditions. The Cathedral of Santa María took three centuries to complete, from the 15th to 18th century, and incorporates Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architectural elements.
Exploring Gaudí's Episcopal Palace
The Episcopal Palace rises above Astorga with its neo-Gothic spires and bright white stone walls. Antoni Gaudí designed this building in the late 19th century - one of only three he created outside Catalonia. Inside, you can visit the Camino Museum, which displays religious artifacts and medieval documents about pilgrimage history. The building's distinctive design includes four towers, pointed arches, and detailed stained glass windows.
Chocolate and Local Cuisine
Since the 16th century, Astorga has produced chocolate, making it one of Europe's earliest chocolate-making centers. At the Chocolate Museum, you can examine old chocolate-making equipment and learn about production methods through interactive exhibits and tastings. Local restaurants prepare cocido maragato, a regional stew with an unusual serving custom - diners eat it in reverse order, starting with meats and finishing with the broth. Try the mantecadas, butter-based pastries that local bakers have produced since the 18th century.
Roman Remains
The remains of Asturica Augusta, founded in 14 BC, are scattered throughout modern Astorga. You can walk along sections of the original Roman walls or visit the Roman Museum to see mosaics, pottery, and everyday objects from the 1st century. The archaeological site includes Roman sewers and thermal baths, showing how the city's residents lived 2,000 years ago.
Getting to Astorga
Trains and buses run regularly between Astorga and major Spanish cities including Madrid and León. The closest airport is in León, 43 kilometers away, with frequent 45-minute bus connections to Astorga. By car, take the A-6 highway from Madrid - the journey takes about three hours.
