Pelayo's Monument, Bronze statue in Plaza del Marqués, Gijón, Spain.
Pelayo's Monument is a bronze statue on Plaza del Marqués depicting the king holding the Victory Cross with a height of 2.80 meters. The figure stands on a substantial pedestal that anchors it visibly within the square, making it a clear focal point for visitors.
The monument was created in 1891 by José María López Rodríguez and cast from bronze sourced from Moroccan cannons captured during the 1859-1860 war. This material choice links the memory of Pelayo to a later Spanish military event, creating layers of historical connection.
The pedestal displays inscriptions on all four sides honoring Pelayo as the restorer of Spanish freedom and religion against Arab rule. These dedications reflect how the local community views this historical leader as a symbol of resistance and identity.
The monument sits on Plaza del Marqués near Revillagigedo Palace, making it convenient to explore multiple historical sites in the area during a single visit. Visitors should allow time to appreciate the surrounding square and nearby buildings alongside the statue itself.
The statue features the Victory Cross, which also appears on the Asturian flag, linking regional symbols to broader national events. This visual connection helps visitors understand how a historical moment remains alive in contemporary local identity.
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