GIJON, a seaport-town of Spain, province of Oviedo in Asturias, on the Bay of Biscay, and 20 miles from Oviedo. The town is built on a slope, of which the upper part is occupied by the old town, partly surrounded by ancient walls; the more modern portion extends to the beach, and both are defended by a fortress and several batteries. In general the houses are good and commodious; the streets are wide, paved, and clean. There are in the town a parish church, many chapels, several primary schools, nautical school; a town-house, a prison, hospital, economic society, custom-house, triumphal arch; a glass and bottle manufacture, and a cigar manufacture employing 1400 hands. Besides, there is some coasting trade in coals, paving-stones, grain, cider, and colonial produce. Fishing and fish-curing are carried on to a considerable extent. The harbour is safe, with good anchorage, though rather difficult of access. The number of vessels visiting the port yearly is about 1000, aggregating 60,000 tons burthen. The coal existing in the vicinity is not wrought. Pop. nearly 7000.