Azkuna Zentroa
Azkuna Zentroa – Alhóndiga Bilbao
A cultural centre converted from a century-old wine warehouse. Its 43 differently styled columns by Philippe Starck and its glass-bottomed rooftop pool are the highlights.
Azkuna Zentroa is in Indautxu Square in Bilbao's New Town. It occupies the former municipal wine warehouse (Alhóndiga), built in 1909. French designer Philippe Starck converted it, and it opened as a cultural and leisure centre in 2010. It was later named after mayor Azkuna, who held office before 2015. The preserved old shell encloses an open atrium. Its best-known feature is 43 columns, each decorated with different materials and patterns, symbolising the diversity of world cultures. The centre has a cinema, exhibition halls, a library, a gym and a restaurant. The rooftop pool has a transparent glass base, so from the atrium you can look up and see swimmers overhead. The atrium is free to visit. Check the official site for exhibitions and events.
Opening hours
approx. 07:00–23:00 (varies by facility; check official website)
Nearby sights
- Bilbao Fine Arts Museum
- Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park
- Guggenheim Museum Bilbao
- Euskalduna Conference Centre and Concert Hall
- Itsasmuseum Bilbao
- Zubizuri
- Arriaga Theatre
- San Mamés Stadium & Athletic Club Museum