Route around Avilés: architecture and modernity

The elegant and dynamic town of Avilés, originating in mediaeval times, is on the central coastline of Asturias, on the left bank of the estuary with the same name. A route around the city is always a delight. And the illuminations at night in the old town are particularly recommended. Meer informatie

Plaza de España Square
You are advised to start your visit in Plaza de España Square, where the Town Hall stands, originally built in1670. The square also has the main entrance to the palace of the Marquess of Ferrera, a 17th-century mansion, now a luxury hotel.

García Pumarino Palace, Santo Cristo Chapel and Ferrera Park
Now let’s go down Calle Rivero street, one of the liveliest and most typical in Avilés. As you go along, you can see the 17th-century García Pumarino Palace, and the Santo Cristo Chapel. Next to it is Ferrera Park with its immense natural and scenic value.

Álvarez Acebal Square
The next stop is Álvarez Acebal Square where you find the Balsera Palace and the School of Arts and Crafts, also the Casa Municipal de Cultura cultural centre.

San Nicolás de Bari Church, Ecce Homo Chapel and Arias de la Noceda House
At the beginning of the emblematic Calle Galiana Street, famous for its porches, take the time to visit the 13th-century San Nicolás de Bari Church, built by the Franciscan monks. The visit continues with Ecce Homo Chapel and Arias de la Noceda House, both dating from the 19th century.

Maqua Palace, house of the “indiano”, Eladio Muñiz, and Camposagrado Palace
Nearby, between Calle de la Cámara and Cabruñana Streets, is Maqua Palace, precursor for the stunning mansion built by the “indiano” (a name given to prosperous Spaniards returning from the Americas) Eladio Muñiz. Camposagrado Palace, a fine example of Asturian Baroque, is on the way to the estuary.

Capilla de los Alas Chapel and Padres Franciscanos Church
The Capilla de los Alas Chapel is Romanesque. Next to it is Padres Franciscanos church, whose fountain is an icon in Avilés.

Old church in Sabugo and Plaza del Mercado market square
In the fishing quarter of Sabugo, formerly a fishing village, you can see the old church of Sabugo. Going further along the Calle de la Cámara Street is the remarkable Plaza del Mercado Square, a magnificent example of late 19th-century ironwork.

Palacio Valdés Theatre
Now we go to Calle Palacio Valdés street to see this early 20th-century building, which has been renovated.

International Cultural Centre of Aviles
Our visit ends in the cultural centre, an important piece of architecture and true symbol of modernity. It is five minutes from the old town of Ávila and was a present from the architect in gratitude for the Príncipe de Asturias awards. The centre has different architectural spaces and houses interesting exhibitions.