Gijón, also known as Xixón in the Ausurian language, is a coastal city in the autonomous area of Asturias in the north of Spain. It came into existence as an important Roman city though the area has been settled since prehistoric times. The largest port in the north of Spain, Gijón is also a significant industrial centre with a population of 277 thousand.
Gijón enjoys a warm maritime climate with mild temperatures and fairly high humidity around the year. Winters however, can be quite cold while summers range from warm to very hot. It does snow for about ten days per year.
Gijón has more than its fair share of museums as well, including the Revillagigedo Palace and Museum located at the Marqués Square and the City Hall. There are many other museums and galleries to keep you occupied in addition to a lively sports scene and nightlife.
Since Gijón is located along the coast of Asturia, it makes a good base to explore the other areas of Asturia from. Fairly close by you can find the other main cities of Asturia, Oviedo and Avilés. Gijón itself is distinguished by its location on the peninsula of Cimadevilla, where the original settlement once lay.
