The Jovellanos Birthplace Museum is a tribute to the 18th-century author and philosopher who played a key role in the Spanish Age of Enlightenment. The writer was born in 1744 in this building, which is one of the oldest houses in Gijón. Piece together the moments of Gaspar Melchor de Jovellanos’ life through the array of fascinating exhibits in the museum.
Take photos of the tidy stone façade of the building, with its arched wooden portal and elegant black balcony. The interior has been exquisitely refurbished with varnished wooden floors and dark wooden ceilings, while many of the original fixtures remain. The period décor and furnishings include 18th-century chairs and desks as well as a pair of Baroque cabinets.
Chat with docents for a more detailed understanding of the author’s impact on Spanish culture. The audio guide also offers fascinating snippets of information. You can organize a guided tour in advance for large groups.
Inspect the wonderful paintings that were part of Jovellanos’ personal art collection. Notice that that the majestic mansion containing the museum is itself a historic work of art. Jovellanos died at the age of 67 in 1811 and his tomb lies in the adjacent Capilla de Nuestra Señora de los Remedios, or Chapel of Our Lady of Remedies.
The museum, which is free to enter, opens Tuesday through Sunday from morning until evening, with a brief closure in the afternoon. There is a small fee for an audio guide.
The Jovellanos Birthplace Museum is in the old town district of Cimadevilla on the Santa Catarina promontory at the northern end of Gijón. Take the bus to the stop in the Plaza Periodista Arturo Arias and walk south for a couple of blocks to get here. Make sure you pay a visit to some other nearby attractions too, such as the Torre del Reloj Clock Tower and the Revillagigedo Palace.
