The key symbol of Avilés’ regeneration is the Centro Niemeyer , an extraordinary gift from Brazilian architect Oscar Niemeyer (the creator of Brasilia), on once-industrial land, just across the river from the city centre. This multifaceted international cultural centre, which is shaping to become a rival to Bilbao’s Museo Guggenheim, had already organised numerous big-name events in Avilés even before its buildings were completed.