Gijon

Historic Churches & Chapels

Gijón’s religious landscape spans from the monumental 20th-century architecture of the Universidad Laboral to humble rural chapels. This collection highlights the city's diverse spiritual heritage, including the iconic San Pedro Apóstol overlooking the Bay of Biscay and the historic Baroque sanctuary of Contrueces. Visitors can explore a range of styles, from the Romanesque remnants in Cenero to the modern, cliffside design of La Providencia, reflecting centuries of local history and coastal devotion.

Iglesia de la Universidad Laboral

Designed by architect Luis Moya Blanco, this church features the world's largest elliptical floor plan. Part of the Laboral Ciudad de la Cultura, the structure is crowned by a massive 2,300-ton dome supported by intersecting brick ribs.

Iglesia de San Pedro Apóstol

Situated at the eastern end of San Lorenzo beach, this Neo-Romanesque church was rebuilt in the 1940s and 1950s on the site of a 15th-century temple. It serves as one of Gijón's most recognizable coastal landmarks.

Ermita de La Providencia

A contemporary chapel rebuilt in 1987 on the cliffs of the San Lorenzo bay. The minimalist concrete design replaces an earlier structure and offers expansive views of the Cantabrian Sea.

Santuario de Nuestra Señora de Contrueces

A 17th-century Baroque sanctuary and former pilgrims' hospice. Historically significant as a site linked to the early Asturian monarchy, the complex houses the image of the patroness of Gijón's municipality.

Abadía de Cenero

Located in the rural parish of Cenero, this site preserves a 13th-century Romanesque portal. The complex includes a mix of architectural elements from the medieval period through the 18th century.

Iglesia de Santa María

The parish church of the Jove neighborhood, serving the western coastal district of the city.

Capilla de la Virgen de la O

A small, traditional stone chapel located in the rural outskirts, representing the simple devotional architecture found throughout the Asturian countryside.

Iglesia de San Julián de Somió

Rebuilt in the mid-20th century in the residential Somió district, this church features a traditional portico and serves as the primary place of worship for the local parish.

Ermita de Nuestra Señora de Peña Francia

A 17th-century rural chapel founded by the Valdés family. It is a notable example of local religious architecture integrated into the green landscape of the Deva area.