An Architect's Guide To Bilbao | Double Tee
- 0:00 An Architect’s Guide to Bilbao
- 0:40 Casco Viejo (Old Town)
- 1:07 Mercado de la Ribera
- 1:17 Plaza Nueva
- 1:28 San Nicolas Eliza
- 1:38 Bilbao Cathedral & Teatro Arriaga
- 1:53 The Guggenheim Museum
- 3:10 The Zubizuri
- 3:24 Bilbao Municipal Library & Department of Sanitation
- 3:35 Bilbao Arena
- 3:59 San Mamés Stadium
- 4:13 Bilbao Metro
- 4:35 Artxanda Viewpoint
- 4:46 Cuisine
- 4:56 Pintxos and Vermouth
- 5:13 Baster
- 5:23 Gure Toki
- 5:33 Agape
- 5:54 Conclusion
!summarize
Part 1/9:
Exploring Bilbao: A City of Architectural Wonders and Culinary Delights
Bilbao, one of Spain's lesser-known cities, presents a vibrant hub of design and cuisine nestled in the Basque region of Northern Spain, close to the French border. This article will take you on a journey through its captivating architecture, charming neighborhoods, and delectable food offerings, ideal for anyone seeking a unique travel experience.
A Spring Visit to Bilbao
Traveling to Bilbao in April provides an excellent opportunity to explore the city without the summer crowds. The prevalent cooler temperatures of the 40s and 50s offer a refreshing contrast to the warmer climates found further south. After arriving by train, the first stop is the enchanting old town, known as Casco Viejo.
Part 2/9:
A Stroll Through Casco Viejo
Casco Viejo, a walled part of the city until the 19th century, presents colorful and charming architecture typical of Basque style. The buildings here typically reach three to five stories, built with stone and wood, adorned with floor-to-ceiling rectangular bay windows. This vibrant neighborhood houses numerous small businesses, quaint coffee shops, and Pintxos bars—an essential part of Bilbaian culture.
Part 3/9:
Among the attractions in Casco Viejo is the Mercado de la Ribera, which is the largest covered market in Europe, sprawling over 110,000 square feet. Here, visitors can find a wide array of fresh produce, meats, seafood, and dining options. Plaza Nueva, a neoclassical square constructed in 1821, is another notable stop, flanked by an arcade filled with shops and traditional Basque restaurants. On Sundays, the square comes alive with a flea market featuring coins, stamps, and flowers. Other highlights include the 18th-century baroque Church of San Nicolas, the Gothic-style Bilbao Cathedral, and the Teatro Arriaga, an opera house named after Juan Cristostomo de Ariaga, often called the Spanish Mozart.
The Iconic Guggenheim Museum
Part 4/9:
In the central Abando neighborhood lies the Guggenheim Museum, a premier attraction designed by architect Frank Gehry. Opening in 1997, the museum is a modern art mecca that attracts architectural enthusiasts worldwide. Its unique deconstructivist design is characterized by a sweeping form of titanium and glass, embodying a daring and innovative spirit. The two main gallery areas—one rectilinear and the other resembling a floral shape—create a fluidity that captivates visitors.
Part 5/9:
The museum’s exterior, clad in titanium, offers durability against Bilbao's weather while being significantly lighter than steel. Interestingly, the titanium panels were manufactured in Pittsburgh, showcasing a global collaboration in construction. Praised by many architects as one of the greatest buildings of the modern era, the Guggenheim was completed on time and on budget—an impressive feat given its scale and complexity.
Art installations outside the museum, including "Maman," a gigantic spider, and "Puppy," a colorful floral sculpture of a dog, enhance the creative atmosphere. Additionally, notable architectural landmarks in the vicinity include the Zubizuri Bridge, designed by Santiago Calatrava, and the modern Bilbao Municipal Library.
Celebrating Bilbao’s Sporting Spirit
Part 6/9:
Bilbao is home to two remarkable stadiums. The Bilbao Arena, with a 10,000-seat capacity, caters to basketball enthusiasts and serves as a public sports complex, designed to resemble a tree with its green cladding mimicking nature. The San Mamés Stadium, home to Athletic Bilbao, is notable for its stunning facade that is capable of illuminating in various colors, reminiscent of Munich's Allianz Arena.
Discovering the Metro and the View from Above
Bilbao's Metro stations, designed by the renowned Norman Foster, showcase an integrated approach to urban design. The stations are characterized by their dramatic and welcoming curved glass entrances that lead to expansive underground caverns.
Part 7/9:
For breathtaking panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains, visitors can hop on the funicular to the Archanda viewpoint. Here, you can see the iconic river, the Guggenheim, and even Bilbao's sole skyscraper, all enhancing the scenic experience.
Culinary Exploration in Bilbao
No visit to Bilbao is complete without indulging in its vibrant culinary scene. Here, food and culture intertwine seamlessly, with Pintxos being a staple. Similar to tapas in Barcelona, Pintxos are small plates, typically served atop a slice of bread, featuring a variety of ingredients from jamón to seafood.
Part 8/9:
Highlighting local eateries includes Baster, known for its traditional Spanish dishes and homemade vermouth, and K2 Toki, a top-rated Pintxos bar in Plaza Nueva that offers delightful curried meatballs and authentic Basque cheesecake. Another must-visit is Agape, where the generous portions and quality rival those of Michelin-starred establishments. For just sixteen euros, diners enjoy an abundance of exquisite dishes, making it a prominent choice for food lovers.
Conclusion: A Hidden Gem Awaits
Part 9/9:
In summary, Bilbao is a treasure trove of architectural splendor and culinary richness, waiting to be discovered. Whether you're interested in the artistic innovations of the Guggenheim, the charming ambiance of Casco Viejo, or the tantalizing delights of Basque cuisine, this underrated city invites exploration. If there’s something unique that you believe should be included in the Bilbaian experience, join the conversation and share your thoughts.