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 Towns and Cities |
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The city of Bilbao is divided into two parts by the long and winding river called Ría del Nervión, or better know as the Nervión Estuary. There are districts on each side of the estuary, and here you won’t run out of interesting places to visit.
The East Coast
Getxo
Getxo is a part of Bilbao located on the northeast coastline of the Bizkaia province. Getxo, also known as Getcho, has some ten kilometers of fabulous cliffs and beaches. This place is adjacent to the major commercial and cultural centers of the region such as the Airport, the Bilbao International Exhibition Center, the Bilbao Guggenheim Museum and the Euskalduna Concert and Convention Hall.
The town is situated twelve kilometers from the city. It is composed of four residential villages namely: Las Arenas, Algorta, Neguri and Santa Maria de Getxo.
Neguri and Las Arenas are home to several palaces and villas. Most of them are constructed between the end of the 19th century to the beginning of the 20th century and are notably heavily influenced by the garden villages of England. In the village of Agorta, one will find it particularly engaging to visit the Old Harbour and the Usategui Park. The harbor contains the ancient layout of well-preserved streets while the park, on the other hand, doubles as an observation platform to view the length of the El Abra or harbor.r. The Aixerrota Mill, built in the 17th century and found in the spectacular cliff of white rocks called the La Galea, can also be seen there.
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Bermeo
Bermeo is considered as the principal and most important fishing village along the Cantabrian coast. Quite understandably, this is a great place to sample delectable fish and shellfish dishes. It also affords a spectacular view of the old fishing harbor from the medieval tower of the poet Ercilla. The tower also features the Fishermen’s Museum. Within the vicinity there is the Santa Eufemia Church. It was constructed in the 13th century and is highly regarded as a national treasure. If one travels from Bermeo to Mundaca, he can see the famous island of Izaro on his left.
Deusto
Generally speaking, the district of Deusto stirs up an atmosphere that will make you remember your life as a student. A large factor of this ambience is brought about by the must-see Bilbao site, the Unibersidad de Deusto. This institution was established in the 19th century and it is still run by Jesuits. The renowned university has been alma mater to several of Bilbao’s great and influential people.
In order to get to Deusto, you need to cross over the recently built Puente (bridge) de Euskalduna or the older Puente de Deusto. It is a pleasure to trek along the Ribera (bank) de Deusto to get a glimpse of how one part of the estuary flows in and through the city.
Mundaca
The town, spelled either as Mundaca or Mundaka, is at the entrance of the river Guernica. It is undoubtedly a quaint and charming place, where one will find it very easy to relax. The Santa Maria’s is a church with a unique tower standing on the harbor’s vantage point. It contains important columns connected to its walls and is also complimented by artfully designed ribs. If one is after fine architecture, then he should definitely head to the Casino. It has a running observation platform built on wrought-iron supports. For a dose of adventure, the town also has one of the best beaches in Europe notable for surfing. In fact, it has already been the venue for several international competitions and championships. One can also try his hand at other water sports such as wind surfing and sailing.
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Sopelana
The most notable feature of Sopelana, also widely known as Sopela, is without a doubt its lengthy beach. The beach is primarily divided into three sections. One of them is the very famous Salvaje beach, reserved for the enjoyment of nudists. Other common activities in these areas include hang gliding and surfing. There is also a quaint church in the town called San Pedro’s. It was reconstructed in the 18th century, and not far from it one can find very important archaeological excavation sites.
Plencia (Plentzia) and Gorliz (Barrica)
These two delightful villages are amiably connected by their respective beaches, resulting in an enormous and striking form resembling the shape of a shell. Since the waters are generally calm and serene, many people enjoy practicing wind surfing there.
The narrow streets found in the Old Part of Plencia are particularly very interesting. Much of the medieval layout of the place is well preserved and one can even find the well-known tower Goinkale there. There is also the tower of Santa Maria Magdalena, a refined Gothic church also serving as a fortress. This is where once can find numerous bas reliefs.
Munguia
The town of Munguia is also relatively spelled as Mungia. A quaint village bordered by mountains almost in every direction, Munguia is located right in the valley where the river Butron flows. The Billela Tower can be found there, an impressive building built in the 15th century and reconstructed in 1852. Today it serves as lecture room for the advancement of culture. There is also a sepulchral tile containing an inscription estimated to have dated from the year 77 AD found inside.
These days Munguia generates a lot of visits from young patrons primarily due to the bars and pubs that now abound the town. Not far as well is a private golf course called La Bilbaina.
Lying between Munguia and Sopelana is the captivating Butron Castle. It is situated in a bend of the River Butron and is proudly owned by the village of Gatica. It was constructed in the 13th century and had undergone the changes implemented by the Butron family who made the house also serve as a tower. Centuries later, in the 19th century to be exact, the Marquis of Cubas transformed it into a romantic castle deriving inspiration from the Baviera family. Today it stands impressively, surrounded by the picturesque backdrop of trees and flowers.
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Baquio
Baquio, or Bakio as it is also called, is a great summer resort ideal for practicing surfing as well as other water sports. One can find, on his right, the San Pelayo Hermitage when taking the road going to Bermeo. It is a building constructed in the 12th century and designed to be Romanesque. Meanwhile, on one’s left is the island of San Juan de Gaztelugatxe. There is a Romanesque hermitage standing on the highest point, where the name of the island is derived from. A bridge and several successions of stairs and slopes keep this little island linked to the mainland.
The lighthouse of Cape Machichago can be seen on one’s left if he pursues in the direction of Bermeo. With several observation platforms found on the road from Bakio to Bermeo and from Bakio to Arminza and Plencia, it is indeed very easy to take unhurried stopovers and gaze at the wonder of the Atlantic Ocean, or the Cantabrian Sea as it is known there.
Guernica
Primarily due to its privileged geographical position, the town of Guernica, otherwise referred to as Gernika, has been the center of communications since the Middle Ages. It also holds the honor of being chosen as the headquarters of the Juntas de los Fueros del Senorio y Sede de Juntas Generales, the seat of the regional authorities and government.
Guernica is fortunate to have several historical and artistic buildings to its credit. One of them is the La Casa de Juntas or the Council Hall. It also has a church called La Iglesia Juradera de Santa Maria de la Antigua. Other buildings include the Museum and the Assembly Hall. There is even a tree in the town that is particularly interesting. It is the only one remaining from what used to be an oak forest and served as the venue for meetings held by the delegates of all the villages in Vizcaya.
A visit to the surrounding areas of Guernica should not be complete without first stopping by to see the Santimamine Caves. They feature the multi-colored Magdalenian Stone Age paintings which are more than 13, 000 years old. Laida Beach is also not to be missed. It can be seen at the mouth of the ria if one follows the right hand bank of the Guernica ria. Meanwhile, Laga is at the road fronting Guernica to Lequeitio. The Arteaga Castle is certain to be a delight to anyone passing by the road to Lequeitio. It is an enchanting tower made of grey and red marble and complimented by lovely, colorful gardens. The romantic castle was constructed in 1857 by the order of Empress Eugenia de Montiio, Lady of Arteaga.
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Ea and Elanchove (Elantxobe)
Although small, the villages of Ea and Elanchove carry a certain appeal with them. The houses found in the latter, for instance, are nestled on steep slopes and have fashioned themselves to somehow form a terrace as they reach down to the harbor; a charming sight, indeed.
Lequeitio
With a beautiful beach divided into two sections, the fishing village of Lequeitio, also known as Lekeitio, doubles as a summer resort. The Santa Maria de la Asuncion Church is of special interest to both history and art throughout the whole country. It was built in the 16th century and serves as an important example of Vizcaya Gothic. Also not to be missed is the old part of Lequeitio. This is where one can find the remarkable Abaroa and Uribarren Palaces. These 19th century castles have squares that are particularly exceptional. All of the streets there are narrow and cobbled, carefully preserved to maintain the authenticity. In addition, the town also has two lovely beaches to its credit, the Mendeia and Karraspio.
Ondarroa
The town of Ondarroa is a fishing village like Lequeitio. A number of its streets ultimately lead to the harbor. In fact, this is where the Old Harbour can be found. The harbor, for its part, experienced a fair share of disasters, having been almost completely destroyed in 1936 and flooded in 1953.
The majestic Licona Tower, along with the Santa Maria de Ondarroa Church, lies right in the heart of the old part. The tower was built in the 15th century, the year 1462 to be exact. If one proceeds at the top he will find the Nuestra Senora de la Antigua Church. It was constructed in the 12th century but was rebuilt in 1750. Anyone will delight in the breathtaking view of the whole harbor and ocean from there. The beaches Arrigori and Saturracan provide additional attraction to the town.
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Duranguesado
One has to pass the region of El Duranguesado first before he can reach either the Upper Deva or the Alava. The main watercourse of the town comes from the river Ibaizabal which goes into the Nervion a little ahead of Bilbao.
Durango
Accessibly located on a crossroads and with several structures of significant importance to architecture, the town of Durango is definitely worth a visit. The Santa Ana’s is particularly remarkable. It is a church built under the heavy influence of Renaissance and Herrera and it has a Gothic crossing to boot. The 18th century Baroque reforms in the Santa Ana arch are also well maintained, making the church a national treasure. Lastly, a visitor can find the Kurutziaga Cross there. In the past it had three sections, and now what remains of it is reminiscent of the former Gothic entrance.
Because of the mountains and valleys surrounding the town, Durango offers several options for any traveler looking for adventure. The area of countryside and woods called Urkiola is not to be missed. It is complimented by scenic views and even has hamlets that are of great importance in the field of architecture. A visitor may also want to check out the Hermitage of San Antonio Abad. It is located on a rise picturesquely bordered by beech and oak trees. If one is after mystery and magic, the he should head to Anboio. The said sierra is animatedly abundant with legends and witchcrafts. For a glimpse of a breathtaking view from the observation platform called El Balcon de Vizcaya, go to Garay. It stands on the slopes of Mount Oiz with a background of fields and forests.
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Abadiano
Abadiano, or Abadino as it is also sometimes called, is situated approximately three kilometers from Durango. The town is especially noted for its attention to agricultural development. Any visitor is welcome to check out the numerous houses in the village, which also serve as towers. A few of them include Trana, Jauregui, Uribarren and Larrigain. The well-known Montxaratz Tower with a Gothic portal will surely delight anyone. It was previously owned by Pedro Ruiz de Montxaratz, the husband of Dona Urraca de Navarra.
Marquina
With several civil and religious buildings that abound, this beautiful village certainly attracts many visitors. Marquina, also known as Markina, is understandably proud of its interesting structures. The Ugarte Tower, Mugategui Tower and La Merced Convent are just a few of them. The entire Old Part, with its valuable importance in the field of architecture, is considered a national treasure. In particular, there is a church inside that is of great interest, the Santa Maria de la Asuncion. It was constructed in 1510 and is one of the biggest churches in the country. Its interiors is very notable, especially the Plateresque retable made by a native of Alava, Juan de Ayala.
Another must-see for any visitor is the San Miguel de Arretxinaga, made up of three big silica rocks that are standing amidst a random group. Bolivar-Cenarruaza is yet another sight that should not be missed. It is located about five kilometers from the town of Marquina. The Santo Tomas de Bolivar Church daintily overlooks the whole village and has a Gothic figure of Christ. The said church was constructed in the 10th century and enlarged in the 16th century.
If one follows Beko Street, which is just within the vicinity of the church, he will come across the Bolivar House. It was constructed among the remains of the old site which was owned by the Liberator Simon Bolivar. It now serves as a museum. A visitor may also find it interesting to check out the Collegiate Church known as Cenarruaza and House of the Abbot lying amidst a picturesque background. It features, among others, Romanesque and Gothic elements and is highly regarded throughout the whole country. It is now a quaint hostelry managed by nuns.
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Elorrio
The spectacular town of Elorrio experienced its most glamorous period during the 17th and 18th centuries. During the aforementioned era, there were several castles with their coat of arms that were found practically anywhere in the village. In fact, today the overall number of castles totals to an impressive 22. Because of this the entire town of Elorrio has been acknowledged as an invaluable site for architecture and historical art. If a visitor wants to take a detour then he should definitely head to the Necropolis of Argineta. It has a comprehensive collection of sepulchers in the 9th century as well as funeral stelae (headstone) that used to be dispersed throughout the town.
Arratia Valley
The Arratia Valley derives its name from the river Arratia which flows from Mount Gorbea. The said mountain is the highest peak in Vizcaya, majestically overlooking the whole countryside and casting an enchanting ambiance throughout the whole place. The forests are shrouded with mystery and magic and the rivers are practically overflowing with several legends.
The valley stretches all the way through the Province of Vizcaya, where it lies on the boundaries of Alava. The southwest of Arratia is located in the town of Orduna, bordered by the lands of its neighboring town Alava. There one will find the rocks where the river Nervion comes from. Everything about the place speaks of medieval structure and military atmosphere set in the middle of a breathtaking landscape. The valley is also home to some of the most enduring examples of Basque architecture such as hamlets, hermitages, bridges and houses also serving as towers.
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Las Encartaciones
Lying in the boundaries of Cantabria and Burgos, the expanse of Las Encartaciones is located in the northwest of the Province of Vizcaya. Las Encartaciones, for the most part, consists of mountains with an abundant number of forests. It is blessed with different trees like strawberry, holm oak, chestnut and oak as well as profuse specie of fauna such as boar, fox and wolf, among others. The town is also very fortunate to have many significant places in it.
Balmaseda is undoubtedly one of the most valuable sites of Las Encartaciones. It has the San Severino Church fashioned in Gothic style and built in the 15th century; the town hall constructed in the 13th century; the San Juan’s which dates back from the 15th century; and the Puente Viejo (Old Bridge) which was built in the 13th century and has three arches. One of the old city gates containing the coats of arms of Spain, Vizcaya and Valmaseda as early as the 16th century can be found between the central arch and one of the lateral ones.
Another very important site is Guenes where the Santa Maria Church is located. This impressive church was built in the 12th century and reconstructed in the 16th century, with an artistic design of Renaissance and Gothic lines. There are also several impressive houses in Guenes. One of the most well known is the Los Amezagas, or the House of Witches as it is also called. It got its name because it has never been completed and has always been in a state of rubble. The house was constructed by the order of Hurtado de Amezaga.
Carranza lies along the banks of the river which incidentally has the same name. It is the capital of a beautiful valley with numerous castles, churches and houses which are also used as towers. Two of the most well-renowned Gothic churches there are the Parish Church of San Esteban built in the 13th century and Santa Maria de Soscano. Within the vicinity one can also find several other worthwhile attractions such as the caves - particularly the Santa Isabel - and the health resort called Balneario de los Padres Palostinos. It is more than 130 years old and is very popular because of the healing effects of its thermal waters. Today it serves as a guesthouse.
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Uribarri
The district of Uribarri is still on the same side of the estuary. This place may be reached either by passing through the Calatrava footbridge, or the Puente del Ayutamiento. Places of interest that are to be found in this district are the Campo Volantin and the Ayuntamiento de Bilbao.
Begonia
Begonia is where you can find another place of worship that is considered as a tourist attraction of Bilbao --the Basilica de Bilbao. This church may be reached by taking the Calzadas de Mallona road that begins at Casco Viejo.
Casco Viejo
The district of Casco Viejo is probably one of the liveliest in Bilbao. People in this area exude a jovial tone and emotion. It is just normal for the cheerful neighborhood to spend time shopping, eating, or drinking in one of the many establishments. Street musicians may also be found in many places in the district.
Tourists may want to check out the goings-on in the the Edificio de la Bolsa, the local stock exchange building. Also, one of the oldest yet most stylish cultural and leisure spots of Spain is La Sociedad Bilbaina. The high rollers may also want to check out the gambling activities of the Casino Nervion. The heart of Casco Viejo though is the towering site of Catedral de Santiago.
If it is the glamour of Bilbao’s poker tables which appeals to you, then you needn’t even venture out your hotel room! You can experience the juegos de casino online – enjoying a typical and exciting Spanish activity and maybe even practising for when you hit the real casinos!
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The Left-Hand Bank
There are also a number of notable places found on the left-hand bank of the entrance of the river Nervion. One of them is the Portugalete. It is a fishing village recognized as the center for industry and commerce today. If a visitor is a lover of history, he will definitely find the old part of the village remarkably impressive. The layout of its narrow lanes has been well preserved, and it also features the suspension bridge which connects both banks of the ria. Another place that should not be missed is the Santurtzi. It is well known both for its carefully maintained old part and its delectable sardines. A visit to the fishing harbor is especially recommended.
Abando
The district of Abando is situated on the other side of the estuary. First, embark on a trek starting from the headstone on the Plaza del Sagrado Corazon, and stroll down the Gran Via de Don Diego Lopez de Haro. In this one and a half-kilometer boulevard, you will witness a series of abodes with fascinating frontages. Included in the must-see list of this vicinity are the Edificio Sota and Edificio de la Diputacion, both having significant historical value for Bilbao. As you stroll further along the Gran Via, you will be lead to many Bilbao delights like the tranquil ambience of Parque de Doña Casilda Iturrizar where the Museo de Bellas Artes is located. Not to be forgotten of course is the impressive and much talked about structure, the Guggenheim Museum.
Rekalde
The district of Rekalde is arrived at by crossing the highway to Larrasquitu. This is a well-liked pleasure trip for the local and tourist groups aspiring to reach the Pagasarri hill zenith. At the pinnacle, there is a safe haven from where one can witness some marvelous sights of the south side of the "botxo" (the pit).
Impressive, isn’t it? Well, think: this is just one city in a big country – Spain! Imagine how much more there is to see through the Iberian Peninsula – from the gothic architecture of Barcelona to the wild beach scenery of Costa Brava, you really must take every opportunity to explore! Luckily, Spain often has cheap flights which make getting around a whole lot more affordable. And once you have reserved one of these vuelos baratos, don’t hesitate in doing the research about your destination – you never know what you could miss out on!
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