Azkuna Zentroa | Bilbao

Azkuna Zentroa (formerly Alhóndiga Bilbao) is a multi-purpose cultural and leisure center located in the Abando district of Bilbao.

Visual Characteristics

The center is housed in a former wine warehouse designed in 1909. The exterior retains its industrial brick facade, while the interior was completely redesigned by Philippe Starck. It is famous for its 43 unique columns, each designed by various artists in different styles and materials (terracotta, bronze, wood), and a glass-bottomed rooftop swimming pool visible from the atrium.

Location & Access

Address: Arriquíbar Plaza, 4, 48010 Bilbao, Bizkaia.

Transit: Near the Moyua and Indautxu Metro stations.

Access: Entry to the main atrium and common areas is free. Specific activities like the gym, swimming pool, and cinemas require payment or membership.

Hours: Daily, 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM.

Key Highlights

Atrium of Cultures: A massive open indoor space supported by the 43 diverse columns.

Rooftop Pool: Features a transparent floor that allows visitors in the atrium to see people swimming overhead.

Mediateka BBK: A modern library and media center spanning several floors.

Golem Alhóndiga: A multi-screen cinema complex showing independent and mainstream films.

Yandiola: A high-end restaurant on the upper floor with a terrace bar.

Historical Context

Originally built as a wine exchange by Ricardo Bastida, it closed in the 1970s and remained derelict for decades. It was reopened in 2010 as a "center for society and contemporary culture" and later renamed Azkuna Zentroa in honor of the late Bilbao mayor Iñaki Azkuna.

Nearby Landmarks

Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park: 0.6km Northwest.

Moyua Square: 0.4km North.

Guggenheim Museum Bilbao: 0.9km North.

Gran Vía: 0.3km North.