Avilés

Avilés
Name	Avilés
Province	Asturias
Autonomous community	Asturias
Coordinates	43.55, -5.92
Elevation	139
Population	79,514
Population date	2019
Mayor	Mariví Monteserín (PSOE)

Avilés is a municipality in the Principality of Asturias, located in the north of Spain, near the cities of Gijón and Oviedo. The town is situated on the banks of the River Avilés, which flows into the Cantabrian Sea. Avilés has a rich history, with archaeological findings dating back to the Roman Empire, including the nearby Roman Baths of Campo Valdés. The town is also close to the Cabo de Peñas lighthouse and the Isla de Deva.

Geography

Avilés is situated in the central part of the Asturian coast, near the Bay of Biscay and the Cantabrian Mountains. The municipality borders the towns of Corvera de Asturias to the east, Castrillón to the west, and Illas and Candamo to the south. The town's geography is characterized by the presence of the River Avilés, which flows through the center of the town and into the Cantabrian Sea. The nearby Sierra de los Lagos and Parque Natural de Redes offer opportunities for hiking and outdoor activities, with scenic views of the surrounding landscape and the Picos de Europa mountains. The town is also close to the Ría de Avilés estuary, which is an important habitat for Osprey and other bird species.

History

The history of Avilés dates back to the Roman Empire, with archaeological findings including the Roman Baths of Campo Valdés and the Roman villa of Veranes. The town was also an important center during the Middle Ages, with the Kingdom of Asturias and the Kingdom of León vying for control. Avilés was a key location during the Reconquista, with the town being conquered by Alfonso I of Asturias in the 8th century. The town's strategic location made it an important center for trade and commerce, with the Port of Avilés being a major hub for the export of coal and iron to other parts of Europe, including the Netherlands and England. The town was also home to the Duke of Estrada, a title held by Philip II of Spain and other members of the Spanish nobility.

Economy

The economy of Avilés is driven by a mix of industries, including manufacturing, shipbuilding, and tourism. The town is home to the ArcelorMittal steel plant, which is one of the largest in Europe. The Port of Avilés is also an important hub for trade and commerce, with cargo ships arriving from Rotterdam and other ports in Europe. The town's tourism industry is driven by its rich history and cultural heritage, with visitors drawn to the Roman Baths of Campo Valdés, the Church of San Nicolás de Bari, and the Palacio de Valdecarzana. The town is also close to the Asturian Wine Route, which features wines from the Denominación de Origen of Cangas del Narcea and other local producers.

Culture

Avilés has a rich cultural heritage, with a mix of Romanesque architecture, Gothic architecture, and Baroque architecture. The town is home to the Church of San Nicolás de Bari, which features a stunning Romanesque tower and a Gothic nave. The town also hosts the Festival Intercéltico de Avilés, which celebrates the town's Celtic heritage with music, dance, and traditional food. The town is also close to the Museo de Bellas Artes de Asturias in Oviedo, which features works by Francisco de Zurbarán, Diego Velázquez, and other Spanish artists. The town's cultural scene is also driven by the Teatro Palacio Valdés, which hosts performances by the Orquesta Sinfónica del Principado de Asturias and other musical groups.

Transportation

Avilés is well-connected to other parts of Spain and Europe by road, rail, and sea. The town is situated near the A-8 motorway, which connects to Gijón and Oviedo. The town is also served by the Renfe railway network, with trains arriving from Madrid and other parts of Spain. The Port of Avilés is an important hub for trade and commerce, with cargo ships arriving from Rotterdam and other ports in Europe. The town is also close to the Asturias Airport, which offers flights to Madrid, Barcelona, and other destinations in Europe.

Demographics

The population of Avilés is approximately 79,514, according to the 2019 census. The town has a diverse population, with a mix of young and old residents. The town is also home to a number of immigrants from other parts of Spain and Europe, including Romania and Morocco. The town's population is served by a number of hospitals and health centers, including the Hospital de Avilés and the Centro de Salud de Avilés. The town is also home to a number of schools and universities, including the Universidad de Oviedo and the Instituto de Educación Secundaria de Avilés. The town's demographics are also influenced by its proximity to the University of Oviedo and the Instituto Nacional de Estadística.

Category: Municipalities in Asturias