© PHOTOS: ROBERTO ALBORGHETTI
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Bilbao (Basque region, Spain) is one of the most amazing cities of Europe. It had the courage to develop itself in a new identity based on culture and art. I had the pleasure to visit it a few years ago. And I was really astonished by a city where I had the sensation to walk in the future and in the past in the same time.
Its 700 years history can be seen in its buildings and constructions. The old town is an Historic-Artistic Monument and a reference point for reconstructing the city’s history from its beginnings. It is an example of urban regeneration, with more than 400 shops of all kinds. The city centre is an example of the best 20th century architecture, with buildings that have been housing the main institutions and companies in Bilbao for more than a hundred years. It is an outstanding architectural site, always designed by the best local architects.
Nonetheless, the city continues to expand: alongside the skill of local architects, the top international firms are represented with works by Foster, Gehry, Calatrava, Isozaki, Pelli… I visited the incredible Guggenheim Museum, where I saw nice art installations and masterpieces (see the next second part of the post). Along the “Gran Via”, in the city centre, I admired a beautiful “open air” exhibition of seven Rodin sculptures, with the famous “Thinker”. In Bilbao culture and art become life. Despite the social problems of the region (autonomist movements), people are really friendly – but don’t call them “Spanish”, they are “Basques” – and conscious to be and to live in a city which walks in the future.
1 – TO BE CONTINUED
It’s a wonderful city!
Yes David! Really wonderful.
Gorgeous shots, Roberto ! You really brought the statues to life. I also love the “twighlight” photographs. Ah, the sky is so blue ! T. (Also, your gallery is seamless with its golden yellows and cobalt and pale baby blues. Even the tiles. Striking!)
Thank you so much Theadora for your generous comment! I kept for myself these shots… But I think it’s the time to share them with my fellow bloggers and friends. Have a nice week end in the wonderful Paris!
YES, Roberto. Keep sharing your photography work! It IS the perfect time. Enjoy your weekend! T.
I don’t live that far away and I still haven’t visited Bilbao. Another thing to add to the list of things that I really must do.
Thanks Roger! I think that Bilbao deserves a visit!
Have a nice week end! R.
I was in Bilbao late 2011 just for a night on my way to Burgos. I was so taken by this beautiful city I was sad that I had only booked 1 night. I was charmed by its beauty and by the lovely people I met in my short visit. Lovely post thanx Roberto cause I now see many things that I missed.
Thank you so much Lyn! Yes, really beautiful city… Another post is comin’ soon! Have a great week!