Cantabrian Mountains

The Cantabrian Mountains divide the green valleys of Asturias from the highlands of León. Their eastern heights include the Picos de Europa, where limestone peaks rise above deep river gorges and lakes occupy hollows shaped by ancient glaciers. Near Covadonga, tradition places the early eighth-century resistance led by Pelayo against Muslim rule. The mountain sanctuary became associated with the origins of the Asturian kingdom and a lasting focus of devotion.