What is astures?

The Astures were an ancient Celtic tribe who inhabited the mountainous regions of northern Spain, specifically Asturias, Leon, and Cantabria, from the 7th century BC until the Roman conquest in the 1st century AD. They were known for their fierce resistance to Roman rule and were notoriously difficult to conquer.

The Astures were primarily a pastoral society, dependent on sheep, goats, and horses for their livelihood. They also practiced agriculture and were skilled in ironworking and pottery. Their society was decentralized, with each tribe led by a chieftain or king who ruled with the help of a council of elders.

The Astures were known for their bravery and warrior culture. They were fierce fighters who resisted the Roman army with guerrilla tactics, using their knowledge of the rugged terrain to their advantage. Their resistance was so strong that the Romans were forced to build a series of fortifications, including the famous Wall of Lugo, to protect their lands from the Asturean attacks.

Today, Asturias is one of the autonomous communities of Spain, with a unique cultural heritage that reflects its Celtic roots. The Asturian language, which has survived despite centuries of Roman, Visigoth, and Arab invasions, is still spoken by a significant number of people in the region. The region boasts a rich gastronomy, with famous dishes such as fabada asturiana (a hearty bean stew) and sidra (hard cider). The landscape is defined by rugged mountains, green valleys, and a wild coastline, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and hikers.