As if that were not enough, the city also gave its name to an economic phenomenon known as the Bilbao Effect. How did Bilbao transform itself from an ugly, run-down industrial wasteland to a glittering city where tourists come just to stand and marvel at its buildings and bridges?
The ambitious redevelopment program began in the late s with a new airport and a stunning footbridge, both designed by acclaimed architect Santiago Calatrava. Then a performance and convention center, the Palacio Euskalduna, was erected on the riverside site of the former shipyard. Following discussions with the Guggenheim Foundation, work started in on Frank O.
The result is a city not just beautiful but fun to visit, and a perfect choice for a group of friends with different interests. Whether or not your traveling companions like art or architecture, they will certainly want to begin at the Guggenheim, walking around its undulating walls to watch the curving golden panels shimmer in the sunlight as the building itself seems to move and drift above the river. Inside, soaring galleries showcase changing exhibits and dramatic installations of non-traditional art.
An outdoor gallery of sculpture surrounds the building. Sitting in front as though waiting to be scratched behind the ears is a foot Highland terrier, completely covered in live flowering plants. This outstanding invention of the Industrial Revolution, more than feet tall, remains in use today. Its shop makes a good place to find classy gifts and souvenirs. Contemporary Basque designers carry on his tradition, and fashionistas can shop for their works in Bilbao.
Exhibits on fishing, farming, traditional crafts and Basque culture draw from the 20, artifacts that make up the collections, some dating back to Iron Age settlements. James to Santiago de Compostella. Look in these narrow old lanes for scallop-shell tiles leading the way beneath overhanging balconies and shuttered porches to the Cathedral of St. James, with its carved stone portal and peaceful cloister. However they spend their sightseeing time, visitors love the food in Bilbao, where traditional Spanish tapas take on new forms and meaning in hearty little snacks called pintxos.
