Bilbao city guide 2017 ENG

V I T O R I A - G A S T E I Z

C I T Y B R E A K G E TA WAY S

B A S Q U E C O U N T RY

heAlmendraMedieval (The Medieval ‘Almond'), is one of the most emblematic historic quarters in the Basque Country. The Santa

Maria Cathedral, open despite building work, should be your first port of call. City walls, palaces, sentry houses… Authors such as Ken Follett and Toti Martínez de Lezea, who have both been inspired by the cathedral when working on their books, were captivated by the life and activity that went on here. Tourists and history buffs can appreciate how the gothic Santa María Cathedral was constructed by wandering around the nave, atrium, walls and clerestory.

Relive the 12th century through 21st century technology

C I T Y W A L L S

In the same district, you can also visit the City Walls , the Bibat Museum, known as such as it houses the Museum of Archeology and the Museum of Playing Cards, or alternatively you can visit the Escoriaza-Esquibel and Montehermoso Palaces. Ramps will take you right to the top of the oldest part.

EXPE RIEN CE TOP

Santa Maria Cathedra l

Put on your safety helmet and a professional guide will show you the history of the cathedral through its passageways and restoration work. If you climb up the tower, you will get unparallelled views of the Almendra Medieval Old Quarter. A set of lights in the Portico of the Light will take you through the evolution of the multicoloured wonder of the Paternina Chapel from the 16th century onwards. www.basquecountrytourism.net

T h e c l i m b t o M o n t e h e r m o s o

47