Chapels of the Monsacro

The route to the Capillas del Monsacro begins in the village of La Collá, a small rural village in the council of Morcín. From here, the path ascends gently along a wide path shaded by oak and beech trees. This first stretch is comfortable, with a slight slope that allows you to acclimatise before tackling the steeper ascent.

As we advance, the forest clears and the path narrows, becoming a steeper mountain path. Here, the path meanders in a zigzag, steadily gaining height. To the right, you can see rock formations emerging from the ground, witnesses to the geological character of the Monsacro.

The path continues ascending until it reaches a key point on the route: the Silla del Obispo (Bishop's Chair). Tradition has it that Bishop Toribio rested here while carrying the Holy Relics to the top of the mountain.

From the Silla del Obispo, the climb moderates, although the terrain becomes stony and slippery, especially on rainy days. As you gain height, the landscape opens up, offering impressive views of the valley of Morcín and the surrounding mountains. Finally, the path reaches Majada Las Capillas, a wide meadow located at an altitude of 1200 metres, where hikers can rest before reaching the medieval chapels.

In this enclave are the chapel of La Magdalena and the chapel of Santiago, both of which have been declared Historic-Artistic Monuments. The chapel of La Magdalena has a rectangular floor plan, while the chapel of Santiago stands out for its peculiar octagonal floor plan.

El Monsacro, a sacred mountain with history and legend
The history of these chapels tells us that the Holy Ark was transported here, the same one that today is kept in Oviedo Cathedral. According to tradition, the holy relics were taken to Africa from Jerusalem when it was taken by the Persian King Cosroes II. From there, they travelled to Cartagena, Seville and Toledo, until they were finally hidden in the Monsacro before their final transfer to Oviedo.

Father Carvallo, in the 17th century, wrote in his description of the Monsacro:
"This blessed mountain is called MONS-SAGRO to this day, because of the sacred deposit it had. It is two leagues from the city of Oviedo, towards the south, between the rivers Lena and Quirós, which at the roots of the same mountain enter the river Nalón'.

This testimony reinforces the historical and symbolic importance of this enclave, where history and spirituality are intertwined.

After visiting the chapels, the descent is along the Senda Grandariella, passing La Muezca waterfall and continuing to the El Tixu spring, where we take a detour to the left towards Los Yanos. Here, we can replenish our water supply at the La Pimpana Fountain, before the path softens and takes us through the woods back to La Collá.

This route requires a good level of fitness, as there are some steep sections, but the reward of its history, landscapes and heritage make it one of the most special routes in Asturias.