Bilbao: A City of Culture
Visit Bilbao's Guggenheim Museum, which is housed in an interesting structure inspired by the anatomy of a fish and the hull of a boat. The building itself is extremely light and airy, thanks to its central glass atrium. Inside, you should take the time to enjoy its displays of modern and contemporary art. Also in town is the Museo de Bellas Artes, a museum with art by the 20th century masters as well as El Greco, Goya and Velazquez. Take the funicular railway to the top of Artxanda Hill to see the stunning views of the city. Shop at La Ribera, one of the country's largest indoor markets. Be sure to wander around Las Siete Calles (the seven streets), the hub of the city's old town. For spiritual enlightenment, visit either the Catedral de Santiago, located on the Plaza Santiago, or the Basilica de Begońa, located high above the old town. Visit the museums, like the Euskal Museoa, with exhibits exploring the rich Basque history and culture, or the Maritime Museum, with a permanent exhibit about the marine and fishing culture of Bilbao and the Atlantic.
Useful sites:
http://www.bilbao.net
http://www.bizkaia.net
http://www.euskadi.net
http://www.euskalduna.org
http://www.guggenheim-bilbao.es
http://www.museobilbao.com
http://www.feriadebilbao.com
http://www.metrobilbao.net
www.cascoviejobilbao.com
