The city of Gijón cannot be understood without the roar of the Cantabrian Sea, and for some time now, neither can it be understood without the educational work of one of its most emblematic buildings. The BIOPARC Aquarium of Gijón is now celebrating its twentieth anniversary, a milestone that marks its maturity as an institution dedicated to the protection of marine ecosystems. This anniversary is no coincidence, as it has been chosen to coincide with World Oceans Day to highlight the role of these facilities in raising awareness among adults and children alike about the future of our blue planet.
Looking back, it seems like only yesterday that on June 9, 2006, the authorities cut the inaugural ribbon, allowing the general public to discover the secrets hidden within its tanks the very next day. However, what began as a typical tourist attraction has completely transformed its identity , especially in recent years, establishing itself today as a cutting-edge center where science and animal welfare are the cornerstones of every daily activity.
Two decades of evolution and environmental commitment
The real turning point for this corner of Asturias came in 2018. With the arrival of the Rain Forest Group, the now-named BIOPARC Aquarium of Gijón began an ambitious modernization that has borne fruit in terms of visitor numbers and prestige. In fact, it has gone from 158.000 visitors at that time to well over 208.000 annual users , demonstrating that interest in local and international nature continues to grow in the region.
Today, walking through its halls is like stepping into an astonishing biodiversity that includes more than 480 different species. With nearly 5.400 animals living in 12 meticulously recreated ecosystems, the center manages more than two million liters of fresh and salt water distributed among 60 aquariums and some 20 terrariums. However, it hasn't all been about additions; the technical team made the courageous decision to stop housing iconic species like otters and penguins, understanding that their management needs required different approaches, always prioritizing strict adherence to animal welfare over spectacle.
Taking advantage of this anniversary, "Microclimates," a permanent exhibition of reptiles, amphibians, and invertebrates, has been inaugurated, focusing on the often-forgotten. This exhibition aims to raise awareness about the most threatened species in our region and in distant territories. Furthermore, the museum continues to proudly showcase its area dedicated to the rivers of Asturias and the Cantabrian Sea, a space that is unique worldwide for its exclusive display of the fauna that inhabits our own coasts and riverbeds.
International recognition and scientific rigor
The aquarium's prestige has extended far beyond our borders. Following its incorporation into the European Association of Zoos and Aquariums (EAZA) in 2025, Gijón has been chosen to host the prestigious Directors' Day in 2028, an event that will bring together the leading figures in the sector across Europe. This is further bolstered by significant agreements, such as the recent collaboration with the Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation to promote the blue economy and sustainable development, as well as the partnership with the American Museum of Natural History in New York, which has already facilitated the presentation of internationally renowned shark exhibitions.
On the scientific front, the work of professionals like Dr. Susana Acle has been fundamental. Her participation in the Congress of Deputies to discuss the situation of Atlantic salmon in the rivers of Asturias is just one example of the center's commitment to applied research . This rigor is complemented by the work of CRAMA, the center dedicated to the rehabilitation of injured turtles and seals found on the coast, directly connecting the aquarium's work with the health of our real marine biodiversity.
To ensure local residents feel part of this success, a very special event has been organized for June 29th. Under the motto "pay what you want," the public can access the facilities by contributing whatever amount they deem appropriate, knowing that every penny will go entirely to the conservation projects led by the BIOPARC Foundation. It's a fitting way to conclude these celebrations, giving back to the community some of the affection received during these two decades by the sea.
This twenty-year period has transformed the Gijón facility from a mere stopover into an indispensable player in ocean conservation. With a track record validated by external audits and a presence that rivals major European institutions, the center enters its third decade determined to remain a vital bridge between society and nature , reminding us that the future of the seas begins with the knowledge and respect we show them, starting in our own homes.