The Port of Bilbao, Spain
ABOUT
Bilbao is Spain’s 6th largest city, it’s biggest port, the industrial hub of the north and the political capital of the Basques. The Basques are said to be the oldest traceable ethnic group in Europe. The local language, Euskera, was spoken before the more popular romance languages, but its origins are lost.
The cuisine of the Basque country is widely considered the best in Spain. Regional specialities include bacalao al pil-pil (cod fillets in garlic emulsion), kokotxas (cod gill flesh) and cured ham.
In 2023 the estimated population of Bilbao was 347,000
Currency is the Euro.
THINGS TO DO
Probably the best known feature outside the building is `Puppy’ by Jeff Koons. Constructed of stainless steel, soil and flowers it is quite stunning `standing guard’ of the museum. Twice a year, in May and October all of the plants that make up the sculpture’s exterior are replaced with fresh seasonal varieties, including pansies for the autumn and winter, and begonias, impatiens and petunias for the spring and summer.
Festivals often fill the days and the biggest and most publicised of these is La Semana Grande, dedicated to the Virgin of Begoiia.
Other things to visit include the Old Town, Bilbao’s bridges, Mercado de la Ribera (Europe’s largest covered market) and much more.
OUR FAVOURITE THINGS TO DO
We have visited Bilbao on a few occasions but still have not managed to see all the sights. Usually ships dock at the port of Getxo (which has warranted its own review) and most cruise companies provide shuttles from there into the city (approx 20 Km). Although we have not been inside the Guugenheim Museum, there is plenty to see outside and then it is very easy to stroll into the old city for a look around there. Its buildings are quite stunning and the Parque Casilda Iturrizar is the central city park.
There are lots of places to explore and don’t forget the cuisine. Sit at a cafe and enjoy a local Pintxos – the Basque country’s equivalent of tapas. Delights include croquettes, fresh sea food and ham.
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