Gijon, a seaport of Asturias, Spain, on the bay of Biscay, in the province and 15 m. N. N. E. of the city of Oviedo; pop. about 10,500. It is built on a low headland, surmounted by a hill. Some ancient walls surround the upper or old town, and a fortress and batteries guard the new town, which reaches down to the shore. The former Augustinian convent is used as a cigar manufactory, employing 1,400 persons. There are active fisheries, and some coasting trade. The harbor is safe, though not easily accessible. The first quay was built here under Charles V. in 1552-'4, and a new one was constructed in 17(38. The Spanish armada was repaired here in 1588. In 1810 the town was sacked and its shipping destroyed by the French, under Bonnet.