The Alhondiga is one of the most unique buildings you will find anywhere. At its heart it is a cultural centre, but in reality it is much more than that. This isn’t your grandpa’s Rotary Club. Most cultural centres are bland buildings that offer rooms for classes and perhaps a gymnasium. The Alhondiga is in a different realm than the traditional cultural centre. Let’s explore What to do at the Alhondiga Bilbao (Azkuna Zentroa).
The Alhondiga is a multi-storey, multi-use complex in the Indautxu region of Bilbao. This well-maintained building boasts a rare architectural design that sets it apart. Despite its age, the structure remains in great condition, making it a sight to behold. Inside is a tasteful bohemian canvas that allows for the fluidity of events that are constantly rotating through. It is also one of the Best Kids’ Rainy Day Activities In Bilbao.
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Alhondiga History
Spanish architect Ricardo Bastida designed and oversaw the construction of Alhóndiga Bilbao, which began in 1905 and took four years to complete. Initially, it functioned as a wine warehouse. During the 1970s, it fell into abandonment.
For two decades the building lay in obscurity. In 1994, French designer Philippe Starck took the initiative to renovate and rejuvenate the sleeping giant. It was under his guidance that this 43,000 square meter warehouse became one of the most diverse cultural centers around.
Inside the Alhondiga
Ground Floor
When you walk into the Alhondiga off of Ipparaguirre Kalea (street) it will catch you off guard. It is a huge space that is mostly unoccupied. The lighting is subdued without feeling dark. Girthy pillars provide contrast against the smooth concrete floors and red ceiling.
The pillars are something special and no two of them are the same. Some are smooth while others are ridged. There are some that look like they could be large vases from a distant land while others look like Grecian pillars or an expression of the industrial complex. It is worth walking the entire complex looking at each one like exhibits in a museum.
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To the left side of the building, there is a seating with benches are lit from the inside. While walking towards them the ceiling of the main floor splits and you can look up four stories to the base of the transparent swimming pool on the top floor. The entrance to the gym and pool is the opposite direction as the illuminated benches.
Just past the seating section there is a sign on a glass window that says “This is Basque design.” Here you’ll discover a store that sells gifts made by Basque artists in different media. Next door is the information office where you can learn more about the building and plan a guided tour. Just past the information section is the entrance to the offices that occupy a section of the complex.
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Walking past the information section the ceiling becomes vaulted and jumps 5 stories. The contradiction in space makes this area feel even larger than it is. From here you can see the beautiful brick facade of the offices and library. The arched windows add a touch of elegance in what was once an industrial warehouse.
Downstairs
Take the stairs or elevator down to the lower floors. There you will come to an auditorium that seats a large number of people.
Below the auditorium is a multi-theatre cinema that shows a variety of movies including cult classics. Next to the cinema is a large area that holds rotating exhibitions of Basque artists. These exhibitions are fluid in their expression and medium and may vary largely between featured artists.
Library
The library takes up a section of the second to fourth floors. Entrance is free and all are welcome. The first floor of the library has areas to sit and read as well as chairs next to the arched windows.
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To the opposite side of the library from the arched windows is the kids’ section that has a themed section your child will enjoy while learning. At the back is an area dedicated for a small exhibition. This is also rotated throughout the year.
The building’s upper floors are home to archives and digital media. One of these sections is dedicated to comics. Another notable feature is a glassed-in office area that honors Bastida Bulegoa. He was responsible for overseeing the building’s construction in 1905.
Alhondiga’s Terrace
Atop the Azkuna Zentroa is the terrace. It allows for views of the surrounding area and the parks below. It has loungers that provide visitors a place to bask in the sun. There are large brick arches that separate sections of the roof. This is also a roped off section for those who are coming from the gym and pool.
The Alhondiga is a unique architectural marvel, with an arched brick design supported by pillars that are all distinct and captivating. One of its most striking features is a transparent swimming pool on the top floor. Additionally, the building boasts a library and art exhibitions on every level.