Ruta de la Plata

Due to its setting in the southern-central part of Asturias, in the stillness of the high peaks that separate it from the central plateau, Mieres has always been a resting place for any traveller or legion making their way along the Roman Highway of La Carisa from Astorga (Asturica) or León (Legio) to Oviedo, Lugo de Llanera or Gijón (Gigia). This is precisely the reason for its growth as a town. During the Middle Ages, pilgrims who were going to visit San Salvador in Oviedo on their way to Santiago greatly benefitted from this enclave. Some historians tell us of the existence of various inns, a hospice and a home for lepers (malatos), dating from the 12th century. The location of this home is preserved today in the name of the local district, barrio de la malatería in La Rebollada. All this explains Mieres appellative of del Camino Mieres-of-the-Trail.

Mieres was once again an important setting in the War of Independence against France, during which time it depended on the town council of Lena. The nobility of Mieres, who settled in the valley of Cuna and Cenero, defended Santullano Bridge, in some cases with their lives. This bridge became a nightmare for the French, as they had no choice but to cross it coming along the Royal Highway of Castille.

However, Mieres really begins to flourish in an urban, economic and industrial way in the mid-19th century. During this time, different companies were established in the area. The Asturiana Mining Company was one of the first iron and steel works in the country (1844). The Sociedad Hullera Española (Spanish Coal Company), property of the Marquis de Comillas, was established in 1892. Also once belonging to the Marquis, the miners housing has been preserved and today is of great architectural value and sociocultural importance. The coal, iron and mercury mines, as well as the iron and steelworks, that once dotted the borough have all but closed down. However, they have left behind the structures of their buildings, nowadays considered monuments of industrial archeology, echoes of a prosperous past.