Zubizuri Bridge | Bilbao

The Zubizuri (Basque for "White Bridge"), also known as the Campo Volantín Bridge, is a pedestrian tied-arch bridge spanning the Nervión River in Bilbao.

Visual Characteristics

Designed by architect Santiago Calatrava, the bridge is defined by its sweeping, curved glass-deck and soaring white steel arch. Its futuristic aesthetic resembles a sail or a harp. The walkway is notably curved, connecting the two banks of the river at different elevations.

Location & Access

Address: Zubizuri, 48001 Bilbao, Bizkaia.

Transit: Accessible via the Tram (Uribitarte stop) or the Metro (Moyua or Casco Viejo stations).

Access: Open to pedestrians 24 hours a day.

Key Highlights

The Deck: Originally constructed with translucent glass tiles. Due to the rainy climate of Bilbao making the surface slippery, much of the deck is now covered with a non-slip carpet.

Isozaki Atea: The bridge connects the Campo Volantín pier to the Isozaki Atea complex, a twin-tower residential and office development designed by Arata Isozaki.

Photography: One of the most photographed modern landmarks in Bilbao, offering views of the Guggenheim Museum and the city's riverside architecture.

Historical Context

Inaugurated in 1997, the bridge was part of the urban renewal plan that transformed Bilbao from an industrial hub into a cultural center. It gained notoriety due to legal disputes between Calatrava and the city council after an additional footbridge was added by Arata Isozaki to connect the Zubizuri to his towers.

Nearby Landmarks

Guggenheim Museum Bilbao: 0.4km West (along the river).

Isozaki Atea: Directly at the southern end of the bridge.

Bilbao City Hall (Ayuntamiento): 0.5km Southeast.

Funicular de Artxanda: 0.3km North.