Gijón, Spain

University of Working Life in Gijón

The university ensemble, considered the most important architectural work of 20th-century Asturias, is the largest building complex in Spain (it is located on a site covering 27 hectares). This grand complex of historic buildings impresses with its refinement and grandeur. In addition to the many beautiful structures, there are also small park areas and shady avenues, a stroll along which will provide you with a wealth of impressions. The 120-meter university bell tower corresponds to the model of the famous Seville Giralda. Its lift takes you up to the viewing platform-the best in Gijón.

St. Peter’s Church

The Main Church of Saint Peter the Apostle is located at the northern end of Saint Lawrence Beach, on Campo Valdés Street. The church was built on the site of another temple, also dedicated to Saint Peter, which was constructed in the early 15th century in the Gothic style. During the Civil War, the old church was destroyed, and its foundation was used to build the new church. A design competition held in 1945 was won by the architects Francisco and Federico Somolinos. The work was completed by 1955. To create the monumental look of the building, the architects turned to the pre-Romanesque style, taking as their models elements from the surrounding pre-Romanesque churches. Only the central tower and the neoclassical portico have survived from the old temple.

St. Lawrence Church

The construction of the church began in August 1896: it was then that the first stone was laid. However, the foundation was started only in January 1897, since the local authorities did not have enough funds for this predominantly working-class neighborhood. The required sum was collected by enthusiasts from all over Gijón. This church, which has the shape of a proper Latin cross in plan, generally corresponds to the Spanish late Gothic style. But for hygienic reasons (in the early 20th century, stables were located in the area of the church), the architect did not include the large window openings typical of Gothic architecture. During the Civil War (in 1936), the church was severely damaged and was reconstructed after the war. Unfortunately, almost nothing has survived of the original interiors.

Simadevillya Quarter

Simadeville’s Fishermen’s Quarter is the oldest district of Gijón. Its tightly winding network of narrow lanes with lively bars and cozy fish restaurants is closely intertwined with the hilly peninsula. The small Chapel of Nuestra Señora de la Soledad, built in 1674, is of great importance to local residents. To this day, sailors and fishermen from Gijón still come here. At the very end of the waterfront stands a stone church dedicated to Saint Peter-the city’s main symbol. From the viewpoint at Santa Catalina Park, you can enjoy a beautiful panorama of the coastline and the port. Also located here is another fascinating attraction: the unusual sculpture “Praise to the Horizon” by Eduardo Chillida.

San Lorenzo Beach

The central beach of Gijón will be especially appreciated by fans of an active lifestyle: here you can surf, go for morning runs, play volleyball or football; or you can rent roller skates or a bicycle and head along the promenade towards the old quarter of Cimadevilla. For the rest, San Lorenzo is no different from other beaches in Asturias: clear as a tear sea water, soft sand and a very short swimming season - from July to early September. Other beaches around the city are no less beautiful.

Ethnographic Museum of Asturias

The Ethnographic Museum of Asturias is several houses that were brought from the outskirts of Gijón, preserving their décor and interior furnishings. The rural houses of the 19th century, the horreo and panera, are stone storage barns on stilts, shepherds’ huts, a hand mill, and a sidon farm. The most interesting “exhibit” is the Gonzáles de la Vega estate, where the only museum of bagpipes outside Scotland is based today. A large collection of European and North African musical instruments is housed in four halls. You should also take a look at the extensive collection of art objects, everyday items, agricultural machinery, and a collection of photographs, which are located in the Valdés House, the exhibition pavilion of the Principality of Asturias, and the rural cottage.

Hoveliános House-Museum

This palace-type house throughout its centuries-long history was the ancestral estate of the Hovelianos family; the writer was born here as well. The first construction dates back to the end of the 15th century; afterward, the house was rebuilt and expanded several times due to the growing family. The house museum opened on 6 August 1971 and housed an art collection from the old Hovelianos institute. Conceived as a multicultural educational complex, the museum not only preserves works of art, but also serves as a venue for concerts, conferences, and guest lectures. The museum collection includes about 650 items of painting, sculpture, photography, furniture, and archaeology. In 1983, the house was declared a monument of history and architecture.

Gijón - the pearl of Asturias

Gijón is first and foremost defined by lovely scenery, created by the inimitable blue of the sea and a vibrant, ever-fresh palette of green mountains. But the city also carefully preserves its history. Here you can visit the ruins of Roman baths with an underground museum, the Palácio de Revillagigedo palace-fortress (18th century), the modern Torre Reloj tower built on the ruins of a similar structure from the 16th century, the Bagpipe Museum. The Cider Museum attracts great interest from local residents and tourists. From January to October, tastings of the local apple drink are held there. You can also try cider in practically any restaurant in the city. It is considered simply improper to visit Asturias and not have at least a glass of this foamy, fragrant beverage.

For a more detailed list of excursions and their prices, you can check after booking your cruise in your “Client Personal Account”.