This Burgos Town is Seeking Norwegians Who Want to Move There: Here's the Curious Reason They Need Them

Covarrubias, a picturesque medieval town in the province of Burgos, has decided to take an unconventional approach to combat the depopulation problem affecting many rural towns in Spain. This small municipality in 'la España vaciada' is inviting Norwegians to try to revive the town.

Covarrubias did not choose Norway at random. The history that connects this beautiful Castilian town with the Scandinavian country dates back over 1,000 years and revolves around the figure of Kristina of Norway, a Viking princess who arrived in Castile in the 13th century to marry Infante Felipe, brother of King Alfonso X, known as "The Wise."

Although her marriage lasted a short time due to Kristina's early death, her legacy endured. Covarrubias is the resting place of the princess, who was buried in the municipality, and to this day her tomb is preserved in the Collegiate Church of San Cosme and San Damián.

To honor the princess, the town of Covarrubias has formed a partnership with Tønsberg, a Norwegian city, and each year cultural events and meetings are held to remember the union between both places. In this context, the initiative to attract Norwegian families to live in Covarrubias aims not only to combat depopulation but also to keep Kristina's historical memory alive.

Covarrubias is part of the initiative that seeks to revitalize depopulated areas of Spain by inviting foreign citizens to settle in the municipality. The program includes incentives such as support for job searching, accommodation assistance, and guidance to adapt to the rural environment of the community.

The idea is to primarily attract 'silver' tourism, or in other words, those over 55 years old, and 'digital nomads,' meaning people who work remotely. Covarrubias currently has 529 inhabitants, half the population it had five decades ago.

Practically speaking, Covarrubias has basic infrastructure that makes it an attractive place to live. It has access to healthcare, education, and essential shops, in addition to being close to Burgos, the province's capital. Moreover, the countryside and quality of life in a rural setting are factors that offer a special appeal to many.

Covarrubias has much to offer Norwegians interested in this initiative. Known as "the cradle of Castile," the town retains much of its medieval architecture (like many other magical towns in Spain). The historical buildings transport visitors to another era, and combined with the climate, landscape, culture, and gastronomy, Covarrubias offers a distinct experience compared to what Norwegians can encounter within their borders.