This economy, which was still mediaeval
and based around rural and artisan
produce, changed in the 19th century
due to the evolution of a budding
bourgeoisie that, thanks to its economical
strength, replaced the previously
dominating classes. The rise in the
population, improvement in communications,
increase in the proletariat, etc.
supported this economic activity,
and as a result, the Cimadevilla
area continued as the focus for local
activity. This period saw the development
of important shops and establishments
that were fundamental to the economical
development of the city, such as
the “Casa Masaveu” or
the Banco Herrero. This progressive
rise in economic activity, based
around commerce, the university,
a budding industry, etc. promoted
the urban development of the city,
which spread towards Uria st. where
the wealthiest families settled and
the major businesses took root, while
the traditional and artisan businesses
stayed in the old town, along with
the traditional Market Place “El
Fontan”.
At the beginning of the twentieth
century the businesses around Uria
street administered to the needs of
a growing population of professionals:
doctors, lawyers, engineers etc. who
demanded services of the highest quality.
Starting from the second half of the
century, the improvement in the standard
of living, just as much in the neighbouring
villages as in the city itself, has
been giving rise to a gradual change
in its commercial aspect, progressively
improving the quantity and variety
of the business scope.
At present, Oviedo, the administrative
and economic capital of the Principality
of Asturias, university city, headquarters
of numerous institutions and public
and private businesses, with cultural
activity of recognised prestige, has
developed into a town that has a commercial
sector of recognised excellence ranging
from the ancient businesses of former
times to the most modern enterprises
in the technology and design fields.
More than a thousand years of history,
with steady and constant commercial
activity, cannot pass without leaving
an impression of quality. And this
is the case with Oviedo.
Further information:
Federación Asturiana de Empresarios
(FADE)
www.fade.es
Federación Asturiana de Comercio
(FAC)
www.facpyme.net
Cámara de Comercio de Oviedo
www.camara-ovi.es
OviedoTiendas
www.oviedotiendas.net |
