Oviedo is the capital city of the Principality of Asturias in northern Spain and the administrative and commercial centre of the region. Its proximity to the ocean in combination with its elevated position with areas of the city more than 300 metres above sea level causes the city to have a maritime climate, despite not being located on the shoreline. It contains a very rich architectural history, with many buildings dating back to the early medieval period.

Oviedo also hosts the annual Princess of Asturias Awards. This prestigious event, held in the city's Campoamor Theatre, recognizes international achievement in eight different categories. Previous award winners include Oscar Niemeyer, Bob Dylan and Francis Ford Coppola in the category of Arts; Nelson Mandela, the International Space Station and Al Gore in the category of International Cooperation; and Mario Bunge, CNN, and Quino in the category of Communications and Humanities.