Located on the central coast of Asturias, near Cabo de Peñas, Aviles was once considered a fishing and farming village but has since evolved into a modern city with a population of 79,916 inhabitants. The city enjoys a warm and temperate climate, with an average temperature of 14ºC.
Due to its demographic growth and industrial development, Aviles has become a significant center for the steel industry. Fishing has become one of its most important economic activities, leading to the inauguration of a new fishing pier and the "Virgen de las Mareas" fishermen's guild in 1980. Since then, nearly 70% of Asturias' fish catch has been auctioned there.
Aviles is an important city in the Principality of Asturias, and its old town has been declared a Historic-Artistic-Monumental Complex. Notable landmarks include Plaza de España with its Town Hall, the pedestrian streets of Galiana and Rivero, the Museum of Urban History, the Oscar Niemeyer International Cultural Centre, the modern Cathedral of Santo Tomas de Canterbury from the 13th century, the Valdes Palace Theatre, and the Valdecarzana Palaces, among others, all of which are considered architectural jewels of both civil and religious significance.
Thanks to contributions from businesses, foundations, and the private sector, the church has housed a symphonic organ built by Federico Acitores since 2010. It is the second-largest organ in Asturias, after the one in the Basilica of Covadonga.
Aviles is a green city par excellence, with thirteen public parks, the Ferrera Park being one of the largest and most beautiful in Asturias, covering an area of 81,000 square meters.
The city's festivals are key events in Aviles’ celebrations, including the International Film and Architecture Festival of Aviles, the Three Kings Parade, and the Antroxu (Carnival), among others.
Aviles’ gastronomy is varied and exquisite, making it a prime location for culinary gatherings and street discussions where people come together to enjoy their favorite dishes, such as fried or boiled longaniza, fabes with clams, or sweets like marañuelas, colasinos, and niemeyitas. Finally, the Cheese and Wine Fair, held in May at the Pabellón de la Magdalena in Aviles, is not to be missed.
