Santa María del Naranco

Santa María del Naranco is a historic church located in the hills near Oviedo, Spain. Built in the 9th century as a royal palace and later converted into a church, it showcases the Asturian architectural style of early medieval Spain. The building features distinctive horseshoe arches and decorative elements, reflecting the fusion of Christian and pre-Romanesque influences. It is notable for its unique design, representing an important milestone in the development of Romanesque architecture. Today, it is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, celebrated for its historical significance and architectural beauty.