Avilés.

Avilés sits on a tidal estuary in central Asturias, a working port shaped for much of the twentieth century by heavy industry. When that industry declined, the city turned its empty docklands into a stage for contemporary culture: Oscar Niemeyer's complex of white curved buildings now holds exhibitions, concerts, and film screenings beside the water. The old town escaped the industrial expansion and keeps its medieval layout intact — arcaded streets lead to the colonnaded Plaza de España, close to the Sabugo quarter, once home to the port's fishermen and sailors. Cider houses line these streets, pouring sidra the traditional way, held high and poured thin to aerate the dry, sharp drink. Parks and walking paths now link the waterfront to the surrounding countryside. Avilés's old town keeps a quiet, local rhythm close to the water.