Zubizuri

Zubizuri is a pedestrian and bicycle bridge spanning the Nervión River in Bilbao, made from white concrete, steel cables, and glass elements. It measures around 10 meters long and 4 meters wide, connecting the boulevard area with the cultural district in an elegant way.

The structure was completed in 1997 as part of Bilbao's urban renewal project, which also included the Guggenheim Museum construction. It marked the city's transformation of its harbor area and reinvention as a cultural center.

The bridge links two important neighborhoods and locals use it daily to reach the art gallery and museum district nearby. Its name comes from the Basque language and refers to the white color of the structure, which stands out brightly in sunlight.

Access is straightforward and clearly visible from the riverbank area, with pedestrians and cyclists sharing the same pathways. One should be careful in rainy conditions, as the surface can become slippery, especially on the reworked walkway.

The original glass walkway surface was later replaced with a non-slip material after safety concerns arose during wet weather. This change shows how practical experience led to important adjustments in the infrastructure design.

Location: Bilbao

Architects: Santiago Calatrava

Official opening: 1997

Length: 10 m

Width: 4 m

Made from material: stainless steel, concrete, glass

Address: Zubizuri, Abando, Abando, 48001 Bilbao, Vizcaya, Spain

GPS coordinates: 43.26639,-2.92806

Latest update: December 6, 2025 16:02