San Julián de los Prados

San Julián de los Prados, also known as Santullano, is one of the finest surviving examples of pre-Romanesque architecture in Spain, located on the outskirts of Oviedo. Built in the early 9th century, this church is celebrated for its remarkably well-preserved frescoes, which cover the interior walls and vaults with vibrant geometric patterns, architectural motifs, and symbolic Christian imagery. As you step inside, the sheer scale and color of the paintings are breathtaking, they are among the oldest mural paintings in Western Europe. The church's design is simple yet elegant, with a three-aisled basilica plan, horseshoe arches, and a large central apse. What makes San Julián de los Prados distinctive is the seamless integration of architecture and painting, creating a unified sacred space that feels both ancient and alive. The site is a UNESCO World Heritage site as part of the Monumental Ensemble of Oviedo and the Kingdom of Asturias, and it offers a rare glimpse into the artistic and spiritual world of early medieval Asturias.

Don't miss

• The 9th-century frescoes covering the nave, aisles, and apse, over 600 square meters of original painting.
• The central apse painting depicting a celestial city with architectural motifs and crosses.
• The horseshoe arches and carved marble capitals, showing Visigothic influence.
• The exterior simplicity, contrasting with the vibrant interior, a hallmark of Asturian pre-Romanesque.
• The adjacent archaeological site, with remains of the original palace and a small museum.

Tickets & tours

Ways to visit San Julián de los Prados

Cheapest way inGuided tour of Oviedo5★ · 10 travelers~2 hoursFree cancellationFrom$12 per personSee dates →Best full dayPrivate Tour from Oviedo to Covadonga, lakes, & sailors villages4.9★ · 67 travelers~7 hoursFree cancellationFrom$464 per personSee dates →