Relax, go for a stroll and stand in the middle of an outstanding work of art in this public park at the top of a cliff.
Enjoy a clifftop walk and wonderful views of the Cantabrian Sea at Cerro Santa Catalina Park. This vast open space sits in the upper part of Gijón's Cimadevilla neighborhood, the oldest part of the city.
Stroll up to the park or ride the bus. Take your time roaming the scenic destination. Then sit on the grass and contemplate the vistas of the Cantabrian and Gijón coasts, including San Lorenzo Beach. Let kids enjoy the small playground.
Walk to the park's principal highlight, an abstract sculpture called Elogio del Horizonte, the Eulogy of the Horizon. This magnificent work of art made of reinforced concrete stands about 33 feet (10 meters) tall and was created by the artist Eduardo Chillida. It was unveiled in 1990 and has since become one of the icons of Gijón. Stand in the center of the structure to hear the amplified sounds of the sea.
Nearby is the High Battery of Santa Catalina. This is a military installation from the first decade of the 20th century that was designed for the defense of Gijón Bay. Study the information panel that highlights its component parts and then wander through the fortification.
Walk or get a bus back down to the Old Town and explore its many attractions. Visit the Church of San Pedro, which was constructed in the mid 1900s on a site once occupied by a 15th-century church. In front of San Pedro are the remains of the Campo Valdés Roman Baths. Visit the museum dedicated to their history.
Go to the Plaza de Jovellanos for the reconstruction of a section of Gijón's Roman walls and towers and the Museo Casa Natal de Jovellanos. This art and history museum is located in the house where Enlightenment politician and philosopher Gaspar Melchor de Jovellanos was born.
Give yourself at least a day to explore the Old Town and Cerrro Santa Catalina Park.
