A Tour to the Guggenheim museum Bilbao

When can we see the Guggenheim museum of Bilbao? When my friends from Sweden come for a visit, this is normally the first thing they ask. By now it has become quite a few trips. I must admit I enjoy the sightseeing as much as my guests.

If there is one thing this city is known for it is this stunning museum of contemporary art.

Weekends the paths surrounding the Guggenheim are normally full of people, tourists, joggers, bikers and locals enjoying the view. We Bilbao dwellers also love to pay a visit to our “Guggen”, even if it is only from the outside. The playground just beside is also a popular goal for families and Elliot, my son, loves the Puppy (the flower dog).

Stunning architecture
The Guggenheim museum of Bilbao was opened in 1997. It is located right in the heart of the city, just along the riverbank. The area used to be industrial ground. A bridge with heavy traffic, “La Salve”, actually cuts right through the building.

The museum was designed by the North American architect Frank Gehry. The style is post-modernistic. The forms are organic, not a square corner is to be found. The exterior part is covered with fine titanium panels, glass and sinous stone.

Exhibitions
The museum offers both a permanent collection and temporary exhibitions. It is focused on modern and contemporary art.

Revitalizing the local economy
Taking the decision to build the museum was a daring initiative. In the beginning of the 90s the local economy was plagued by a heavy recession. The museum became a part of a plan to revitalize the economy. At first the project was met with opposition. Spending massive public funding on a museum seemed like slight madness.

However, the Guggenheim museum Bilbao changed the city forever. Throughout the years it has brought millions of visitors. The Guggenheim has definitely turned Bilbao into an attractive must see for visitors from all over the world.