Between chimney smoke: the start of the industrialization process of the Gijón city

Abstract

The city of Gijón has had special relevance in the industrial takeoff of the Principado of Asturias, despite the fact that today it is difficult to trace the traces of a period that has contributed so much to the way of life of its citizens. From 1800 the first signs of industrialization would emerge in the city with the start-up of factories and the improvement of means of transport. This would bring with it a period of economic prosperity that encouraged population growth and the creation of new neighborhoods to house it. This article includes the most important factories inaugurated between 1822 and 1900, taking as a starting point the foundation of the Tobacco Factory, considered the first industry in the region. All of them, the majority of which have disappeared, constitute interesting samples of Industrial Heritage and testimonies of a past that will not return.