Estatua de Woody Allen Travel Forum Reviews

Estatua de Woody Allen

Description

Picture this: you’re strolling through the elegant, understated streets of Oviedo. Maybe there’s a slight drizzle—because, let’s face it, Asturias is rarely dry for long—and then you see him. A slightly awkward, almost bashful statue of one of the cinema’s oddest darlings, Woody Allen, looking like he might say something neurotic if he could actually talk. The Estatua de Woody Allen isn’t enormous or ostentatious, but it’s got a quirky charm that sneaks up on you.

Now, it might seem kind of random at first—why’s there a Woody Allen statue in northern Spain? Well, back in 2002, Oviedo honored him with the Prince of Asturias Award for the Arts (sort of Spain’s Nobel Prize, if you want to make the comparison). Allen, apparently, fell in love with Oviedo’s quiet beauty, so the city did something pretty unusual: they plonked a bronze version of the man right downtown. That’s how history gets made, one eccentric director at a time.

From a traveler’s perspective, the statue itself isn’t meant to knock your socks off with grandeur. Standing at about life size, Woody’s cast in a moment of introspection, hands tucked into his coat pockets, glasses perched precariously. No grand pedestal, nothing shouting look at me. It’s so understated that plenty of people have shuffled past thinking it’s just another curious character on the street—until they do a double-take. And to me, that’s part of the point. It’s a little Easter egg for film buffs and pop culture detectives.

Not everyone’s thrilled about the statue’s existence, especially with the ebbs and flows of Allen’s public reputation, but honestly, it’s become a kind of litmus test for how willing you are to find oddball moments in travel. Some people stop, grin, and take a selfie; others look at it, shake their heads, and move on to café con leche. Either way, it fits the city’s slightly offbeat yet sophisticated personality. I won’t pretend it’s the Sistine Chapel, but it’s got a wry, conversational quality that might just surprise you.

Key Features

  • Life-sized bronze statue that captures Woody Allen in his iconic eyeglasses and all-too-familiar hunched posture
  • Quiet, accessible spot on a popular pedestrian street where locals and visitors alike wander by
  • Free photo opportunity—no entrance or ticket fee, just walk up and snap as many pics as you like
  • Commemorative plaque explaining the statue’s significance and Oviedo’s unique connection to the director
  • Wheelchair accessible entrance for visitors with mobility needs (though there’s no designated accessible parking right at the site, just so you know)
  • Charming urban surroundings: The backdrop is the city’s historic center, so you’re smack in the middle of gorgeous architecture and shoe boutiques galore
  • Conversation starter—locals have some serious (and sometimes hilarious) opinions about the statue, so don’t be shy to join in on the chatter
  • Photo magnet: It’s become a strangely iconic Instagram shot for Oviedo, especially if you nail the right angle or try to mimic Allen’s pose
  • Surrounded by cafés, shops, and restaurants—perfect for grabbing a bite or espresso after your visit

Best Time to Visit

Let’s keep it real: Oviedo isn’t the sunniest part of Spain, so your experience at the Woody Allen Statue can change with the fickle Asturian weather. I wandered by on a drizzly autumn afternoon once—which, oddly, felt right. Woody himself might have approved of the grey sky and slightly soggy air; it just matches his films somehow.

But, if you’re gunning for the absolute best, late spring through early autumn (think May to September) tends to offer the mildest, driest weather Oviedo can muster. Crowds are manageable, daylight lingers, and the soft evening light around golden hour makes for absurdly photogenic selfies—trust me, I’m “that person” with more than one slightly embarrassing tourist snap.

If you actually enjoy a little drizzle and fewer crowds (and maybe want to wear your Woody Allen-style raincoat and glasses for full effect), Oviedo’s moody off-seasons—late fall and winter—have their own special charm. Christmas lights in the background? Chef’s kiss, as the kids say.

If I had to choose one not-so-secret hack, it’s swing by early mornings or just before sunset. The city is quieter, shadows are long, and you might even get the statue to yourself. Plus, it’s less likely you’ll have to awkwardly wait your turn while someone else practices their best Annie Hall pose.

How to Get There

Finding the Woody Allen Statue honestly couldn’t be easier, even if you’re cursed with the world’s worst sense of direction (which, by the way, I am). The statue sits in the heart of Oviedo’s historic core, right where the old town’s strolling crowds merge with modern city life.

From the main train or bus station, you’re looking at maybe a 10–15 minute walk, depending on how often you stop to window shop or take in the old buildings.

By foot: The pedestrianized streets make it a breeze for walkers—no cars to dodge, just charming cobblestones and maybe an accordion busker to add some soundtrack.

By taxi or ride-share: You can get dropped close, but you’ll probably have to walk the last stretch, since central Oviedo’s streets are mostly car-free.

Public transit: Several local city buses drop you nearby. I’m not usually one to brave buses in a foreign country, but the system here is straightforward. Look for stops close to the historic quarter.

Parking: Street parking is like a unicorn in the city center. A public parking garage is a safer bet, but you’ll need to hoof it a bit.

For those needing wheelchair access, the statue’s location is relatively flat with a smooth entry point. But heads-up, there’s no specific accessible parking, so factor that into your plans. I’ve wheeled a heavy suitcase over these cobbles before; it’s doable, just a bit of a workout.

Tips for Visiting

Alright, so you’ve made it to Oviedo, camera (or phone) in hand, and you’re determined to hunt down this quirky tribute. A few things to make your visit even better – because I wish someone had told me these: