Since its was first held in 1987, the “Semana Negra” (Thriller Week) in Gijón has become one of the most popular literary festivals in Europe.

These are ten days dedicated to detective literature during which visitors can also enjoy concerts, exhibitions, conferences, street markets and gastronomic competitions. Other literary genres are also represented, including the historical novel, science fiction and comics. The International Photojournalism Conference is also held as part of the Semana Negra, and usually attracts some of the biggest names in the profession to Gijón.