Information about Gijón
Gijón, or Xixón, is together with Avilés and Oviedo, one of the three main cities of the Principality of Asturias. In fact, it is the most populated city in the province and the one with the greatest economic and commercial dynamism. Like many cities in the north of Spain, it lived a very important development linked to the naval industry, between the end of the 20th century and the beginning of the 21st century.
A little history
Like much of the northern region of the country, we find in the surroundings of Gijón, sites that attest to the presence of prehistoric cultures since the Paleolithic. Like many other cities, it experienced a period of decline during the early Middle Ages. Later, it would develop with great intensity thanks to its coastal location.
What to see and do in Gijón
Cimadevilla neighbourhood
Located on the peninsula of Santa Catalina, the Cimadevilla neighbourhood is the original enclave of the city. Inside you can see typical architecture of the area, like small colorful sailor houses. It is also the most atmospheric area of the city, which concentrates a good part of the leisure establishments of the same.
In Praise of the Horizon
It is a sculpture made by the artist Eduardo Chillida that represents one of the most iconic places in the city. It is located at the top of the Cimadevilla neighbourhood, on the cliff overlooking the sea. If you stand just below the construction site you can feel the sound of the waves breaking against the cliff in an enveloping way.
Labor University
Visiting the Laboral building is a must for architecture lovers. It was built by the architect Luis Moya in the 20th century. The architecture of the building shows a notable influence of the Chicago School. It is the most important architectural work carried out in the 20th century in Asturias.
Jovellanos Theatre
Located in the center of the city, it functions as a municipal theater, offering a large number of cultural activities. Inaugurated in the 19th century, it is a regular venue for the Princess of Asturias Awards and the Gijón Film Festival.
Basilica of the Sacred Heart
It is a temple popularly known as “La iglesiona”. It is located in front of the Royal Institute of Jovellanos. Its construction dates from the early twentieth century and was built under the architectural precepts of neo-Gothic and modernism. During the Civil War it was used as a prison.
