Bilbao city guide 2017 ENG

B I L B A O

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

b ilbao has a vibrant, avant- garde feel to it... You'll see for yourself straightaway that it exudes modernity. From its origins as an industrial hub, it has evolved into an international reference point for urban design and has set the standard as a model of urban regeneration. Prepare yourself... You are going to see a radical change. It is worth noting that the transfor- mation started with the construction of the underground metro system, vital to the daily routine of the city's inhabitants. But if there is one development that has secured Bilbao's place on the international stage, it has to be the 'Guggenheim effect'. It can't be denied that, since its construction, it has become an icon of the new urban reality. It's breathtaking architecture, the work of Frank Gehry, won't fail to leave you impressed. The same can be said of its art gallery, one of the world's most comprehensive collections of contemporary art. Internationally renowned architects showcase the model regeneration of Bilbao. A city that has managed to find a different way to express itself with design firmly at its heart

“ F O S T E R I T O ”

There is an obligatory photo to be taken alongside the museum's mascot, Puppy, Jeff Koon's enormous floral dog. In fact, the sculpture was commissioned for the museum's inauguration but it proved to be so popular that it has remained as the museum's faithful protector. Another of the great attractions of the Guggenheim Museum of Bilbao are the surrounding areas that attract tourists from all over the world. With good reason, right from its introduction, Bilbao has been considered as a great city that can market itself as a glamorous cosmopolitan centre. You'll sense it yourself, it has just got that feel to it. As soon as you get on to the metro, you will notice the hallmarks of Sir Norman Foster in a majestic fusion of architecture and engineering. 'Fosteritos' is the name given around here to the attractive structures at the entrances to the metro. You will also be astounded by the unique creativity of Phillipe Stark , which can be seen in the Alhóndiga, a former wine warehouse that has been converted into a multicultural centre.

L A a l h ó n d i g a

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