Plaza Mayor

Plaza Mayor is the heart and soul of the historic center that Gijón takes great pride in. Located in the cozy Centro district, the square is an enclosed public space surrounded by elegant buildings with traditional covered galleries. Spain is famous for its central squares, and Gijón's version stands out for its special atmosphere of Asturian hospitality and the austere beauty of its facades.

Plaza Mayor. Иллюстрация. Источник: Kupi.com AI

The architectural appearance of the square harmoniously combines Baroque and Classicist features. The main ornament of the ensemble is the City Hall building, which gives the place an official and majestic look. Four-story buildings with bright facades and stone porticos create a sense of security and comfort, turning the square into a vast inner courtyard of the old town.

This place is recognized as one of the most photogenic spots in the region, thanks to its arched passages and authentic architecture. Plaza Mayor serves not only as a tourist attraction but also as a vibrant center of cultural life, where festivals, markets, and official city events are regularly held.

To clarify information about events or to contact the city administration, you can use the following contact details:

At Plaza Mayor, life never stands still for a moment, offering guests many ways to spend their time. Start with a leisurely stroll through the covered galleries, where the entrances to small shops and cozy cafes are hidden in the shadow of the arches. It is the perfect place to feel the rhythm of the city while watching passers-by from the terrace of one of the establishments.

Special attention should be paid to the local gastronomy. The square is surrounded by traditional cider houses (sidrerías), where you can try the famous Asturian cider. Be sure to watch how the waiters skilfully pour the drink from an outstretched hand — it is a true tradition that should not be missed. The menus of local restaurants always feature fresh seafood and hearty fabada.

If you are lucky enough to be here during holidays or weekends, you will witness colorful fairs and markets. They sell handmade crafts, local delicacies, and souvenirs. In the evening, the square is transformed by soft lighting, becoming a romantic place for walks and striking photo shoots against the backdrop of the old facades and the City Hall.

Getting to the central square is quite easy, as it is located in the very heart of the historic district. If you are already in the city center, it is best to go on foot: the walk from the popular San Lorenzo Beach takes about 20 minutes along the scenic promenade. For those using GPS, the coordinates are 43.5450127, -5.6625838.

Gijón's public transport is represented by an extensive network of EMTUSA buses. Look for routes heading to the Plaza Mayor stop. If you are arriving from other Asturian cities (such as Oviedo) by bus, the walk from the Jorge Juan station to the square takes about 10–15 minutes.

For travelers by car, it is important to remember that the square itself is a pedestrian zone. It is recommended to leave your car in the nearest underground parking (Plaza Mayor parking). If you prefer comfort, a taxi from any point in the center will take you to the edge of the historic quarter in just a few minutes.

The history of Plaza Mayor is inextricably linked to the era of Gijón's emergence as a key port hub in the north of the country. It was designed as a commercial and public space inspired by the classic Spanish squares of the Habsburg era. The characteristic covered galleries were built not only for beauty but also to protect citizens from the frequent Asturian rains.

In the 19th and 20th centuries, the square's importance grew when the City Hall building was permanently established here. Since then, this place has become the official "face" of the city, where the most important administrative decisions were made. The architectural ensemble, combining elements of Baroque and Classicism, has been renovated several times to maintain its grand yet cozy appearance.

The modern stage of the square's history began with its complete pedestrianization. This transformed Plaza Mayor from a functional administrative hub into a favorite leisure spot. Today, the red facades of the buildings and the austere arches are a symbol of the continuity of generations, where ancient traditions coexist with the rhythm of modern life.

For a general introduction to the square and some memorable photos, you will need about 1 hour. This is quite enough time to leisurely walk around its perimeter, admire the architectural details of the City Hall, and peek under the vaults of the ancient arches.

If you decide to stop by one of the local cider houses or happen to visit during a city fair, it is worth planning for 2–3 hours. Combining a visit to Plaza Mayor with a walk through the neighboring Cimadevilla district will turn the visit into a full half-day excursion.

Like most open public spaces in the city, Plaza Mayor is open 24/7. You can enjoy its architecture at any convenient time, whether it's early morning for a quiet viewing or late evening to immerse yourself in Gijón's nightlife.

According to official data, the schedule is as follows:

• Monday – Sunday: Open 24 hours.

Keep in mind that the cafes, shops, and the City Hall building located on the square have their own working hours, usually corresponding to the standard Spanish schedule with a siesta break.

Exploring the surroundings of Plaza Mayor will allow you to dive deeper into the atmosphere of Asturias. Just a few steps from the square, the winding streets of the old town begin, leading to the sea and green parks. A walk through this area is a great way to combine sightseeing of historical monuments with modern entertainment.

Below are the most interesting sites located within walking distance of the main square: