If you are thinking of visiting Asturias, Avilés is a must-see. With its rich historical heritage, lively cobbled streets, historic squares and surprising cultural offerings, this city is the perfect place to enjoy an unforgettable getaway. You will discover a mix of tradition and modernity that will leave no one indifferent.
Avilés: A city with a historical soul
Avilés has its roots documented since the 1085th century, consolidating itself as an important Asturian port in medieval times, especially after receiving the Charter in XNUMX from Alfonso VI of León, which gave it privileges and economic projection. Since then, this town has been a vital center of commerce and culture in Asturias.
Plaza de España: The historic heart of Avilés
We will begin our tour in the heart of the historic center, in the Plaza de España . This place is the epicenter of Avilés, surrounded by buildings that tell the history of the city. Among them are the Town Hall and Palace of the Marquis of Ferrera, a 17th-century baroque gem. The latter, now converted into an elegant hotel, is a stop you cannot miss.
Another essential building is the Llano Ponte Palace, built in the 18th century, which reflects the splendor of Asturian palatial architecture. In addition, the square is surrounded by pleasant terraces where you can enjoy a moment of rest while admiring the surroundings.
Iconic streets that tell stories
From Plaza de España some of the most emblematic streets of Avilés start, such as the Ferreria Street, known for being the place where blacksmiths worked in times past. There, the Valdecarzana Palace, which dates back to the 14th century and is the only Gothic civil building preserved in the city.
Continue your tour of the Galiana street, one of the most picturesque in Avilés. With 252 meters of arcades, it is perfect for walking even on rainy days. Built in the XNUMXth century, it retains its charm with a double pavement: cobbled for animals and smooth for pedestrians. On the other hand, the Rivero Street, which connects the City Hall with Avenida Cervantes, is also an ideal place to get lost.
Squares full of charm
Avilés is a city of historic squares. In addition to the Plaza de España, you cannot miss visiting the Domingo Alvarez Acebal Square, surrounded by medieval-style houses and presided over by the Balsera Palace and Church of San Nicolás de BariThis temple, in Romanesque style, is one of the oldest in the town.
Another square worth a visit is the Camposagrado Square, where the imposing Camposagrado Palace is located, built in the 17th century with its characteristic baroque architecture.
Parks and nature in the heart of the city
Avilés also has green where you can relax and enjoy nature. The Ferrera Park, in the English style, is the lung of the city. Formerly owned by the Palace of the Marquis of Ferrera, this park has ponds, a bandstand and paths perfect for a quiet stroll.
Another green space is the Pier Park, which combines nature and art thanks to its statues and garden areas. It is an ideal place to unwind and enjoy a relaxing atmosphere.
The Niemeyer Centre: Modernity and culture in Avilés
El Niemeyer Center is the symbol of modernity in Avilés. This space, designed by the Brazilian architect Óscar Niemeyer, represents a cultural beacon for Asturias. Its avant-garde architecture houses an auditorium, an exhibition hall, a multipurpose building and a viewing tower that offers spectacular views of the Avilés estuary.
The centre is an ideal place to enjoy exhibitions, concerts and cultural activities. In addition, its walkway, designed as a river flowing towards the sea, symbolises the connection between nature and the city.
Nearby places that complement the visit
If you have time, Avilés is an excellent base for exploring the surrounding area. A few minutes drive away is Salinas beach, ideal for a day of sun and sea. Don't forget to visit the Philippe Cousteau Anchor Museum, an open-air space dedicated to the maritime world.
Another option is to approach the La Carriona Cemetery, considered an open-air museum for the beauty of its sculptures and funerary monuments. In addition, the Sabugo district, the old seaside district, is perfect for enjoying the traditional atmosphere and its rich gastronomy.
Avilés will surprise you with its mix of history, crop y natureIts perfectly preserved historic centre, together with modern spaces such as the Niemeyer Centre, make this city a unique and charming destination. It doesn't matter if you visit for a day or decide to stay longer, every corner has something special to offer.