
Weird & Unusual Attractions in Bilbao, Spain
1. Guggenheim Museum's Temporary Installations
A modern art museum housing ever-changing temporary installations, offering a unique and thought-provoking experience.
- Interactive Art: Allows visitors to interact with the exhibits
- Cultural Exchange: Showcases works from international artists, fostering cross-cultural understanding.
- Evolving Art Landscape: The museum's temporary installations ensure a fresh and dynamic art experience.
2. The Casa de Mushrooms
An unusual house covered in fiberglass mushroom-shaped modules, designed by architects Philippe Starck and Antonio Obeid.
- Architectural Marvel: A unique residential building that has become a Bilbao landmark.
- Innovative Design: Showcases the creative approach of renowned architect Philippe Starck.
- Sustainable Living: The mushroom-shaped modules are designed to promote energy efficiency and eco-friendly living.
3. The Euskalduna Palace's Sculptures
A concert hall featuring intricate and imaginative sculptures both inside and out.
- Artistic Expression: The sculptures express Basque culture, mythology, and history.
- Architectural Integration: Sculptures are seamlessly integrated into the palace's design.
- Public Engagement: The sculptures serve as an educational tool, helping visitors understand Basque culture and history.
4. Bilbao's Seven Street Art Murals
A collection of seven large-scale murals showcasing the works of international street artists.
- Urban Revitalization: Murals contribute to the urban renewal and beautification of Bilbao.
- Cultural Diversity: Features works from various international street artists, showcasing cultural diversity.
- Public Engagement: Murals serve as a platform for public art appreciation and dialogue.
5. The Artxanda Funicular and Viewpoint
A funicular railway offering panoramic views of the city and unusual rock formations.
- Scenic Vistas: Offers breathtaking views of Bilbao and its surroundings.
- Historical Significance: Built in the late 19th century, it's an important piece of Bilbao's industrial heritage.
- Natural Wonders: Provides a unique vantage point to appreciate the unusual rock formations nearby.
6. The Zubizuri Footbridge
A unique pedestrian bridge designed by Santiago Calatrava, featuring a wave-like structure.
- Architectural Masterpiece: An iconic Bilbao landmark designed by renowned architect Santiago Calatrava.
- Functional Design: The bridge's wave-like structure allows for smooth pedestrian movement.
- Symbol of Unity: Serves as a symbol of unity between the old and new parts of Bilbao.
7. The Casa de la Ermita
A small house built inside an ancient oak tree, offering a unique accommodation experience.
- Eco-Friendly Living: The house is built using eco-friendly materials and techniques.
- Nature Integration: Living inside an ancient oak tree offers a unique connection to nature.
- Unique Accommodation: Provides a one-of-a-kind accommodation experience for travelers.
8. The San Juan de Gaztelugatxe Chapel
A small chapel atop a rocky islet connected by a stairway of 240 steps.
- Religious Significance: Dedicated to Saint John the Baptist, it has religious and historical significance.
- Scenic Landscape: Offers stunning views of the Bay of Biscay and surrounding cliffs.
- Spiritual Pilgrimage: Serves as a spiritual pilgrimage site for many visitors.
9. The Udaberri Biscuit Factory Museum
A museum dedicated to the history and production of Basque biscuits, including a chance to make your own.
- Culinary Heritage: Preserves the culinary traditions of Basque biscuit-making.
- Hands-On Experience: Offers visitors the opportunity to make their own biscuits.
- Basque Culture Education: Provides insights into Basque culture and traditions through its exhibits.
10. The Bilbao Underground Wine Cellars
A network of ancient wine cellars located beneath the old town, offering a glimpse into Bilbao's winemaking history.
- Historical Preservation: Preserves an important part of Bilbao's historical wine industry.
- Wine Tasting Experience: Offers visitors the chance to taste local wines.
- Underground Adventure: Provides an adventurous experience exploring the city's subterranean network.
11. The Museo de Bellas Artes de Bilbao
A museum displaying a wide range of artworks from the medieval period to the present.
- Cultural Diversity: Showcases an extensive collection representing various cultures and artistic movements.
- Art Education: Provides educational resources for visitors to learn about art history and techniques.
- Basque Art Representation: Features a significant collection of Basque art, highlighting regional talent.
12. The Azkuna Zentroa Cultural Center
A multi-purpose cultural center featuring exhibitions, performances, and workshops.
- Cultural Diversity: Offers a diverse range of cultural activities, including art exhibits, music concerts, and dance performances.
- Community Engagement: Promotes community engagement through workshops and educational programs.
- Contemporary Art Showcase: Showcases contemporary artworks from local and international artists.
13. The Euskal Herria Museum of the Basque Country
A museum dedicated to the history, culture, and identity of the Basque people.
- Cultural Preservation: Preserves and promotes the cultural heritage of the Basque people.
- Educational Resource: Serves as an educational resource for visitors to learn about Basque history, language, and traditions.
- Cultural Exchange: Facilitates cultural exchange between the Basque Country and other regions.
14. The Bilbao Maritime Museum
A museum dedicated to the history of navigation and the sea, featuring a replica of a medieval ship.
- Maritime History Education: Provides insights into Bilbao's maritime history through exhibits and interactive displays.
- Historical Preservation: Preserves the historical significance of Bilbao as a port city.
- Hands-On Experience: Offers visitors the opportunity to explore a replica of a medieval ship.
15. The Koboak Mendian Bizkaia Museum
A museum dedicated to the Basque Country's ancient and traditional way of life.
- Cultural Preservation: Preserves the cultural heritage of the Basque Country, focusing on ancient traditions.
- Educational Resource: Serves as an educational resource for visitors to learn about the Basque Country's past and traditions.
- Authentic Experience: Provides a genuine, authentic experience of traditional Basque life.