Teatro Arriaga, Opera house in Casco Viejo, Bilbao, Spain.
The Teatro Arriaga is an opera house in Bilbao's Casco Viejo with a Neo-baroque facade decorated with ornaments, dual-level balconies, and large arched windows overlooking Plaza Arriaga. The building spans multiple levels and seats approximately 1,200 spectators for operas, theater performances, dance shows, and concerts.
The building was originally constructed in 1890 and has shaped the city's cultural life ever since. After severe flooding damage in 1983, it underwent extensive reconstruction that carefully restored its original architectural features.
The building is named after Juan Crisóstomo de Arriaga, a composer born in Bilbao who gained recognition throughout Spain in the 19th century. His name links the venue to the city's musical heritage and honors one of its most important artistic figures.
The visit is best enjoyed by observing the large windows and outdoor plaza while exploring the surrounding streets of Casco Viejo. Access to the building is from the centrally located Plaza Arriaga, and taking time to move through the different levels allows you to appreciate the complete architecture.
The building combines Neo-baroque and eclectic style elements, reflecting the architectural trends of late 19th-century Europe. This blend of design styles makes the theater a notable example of the artistic variety of its era.
Location: Bilbao
Inception: May 31, 1890
Architects: Joaquín Rucoba
Official opening: 1890
Architectural style: baroque revival, eclectic architecture
Capacity: 1200
Part of: Casco Viejo
Address: Arriaga plaza
Phone: +34944163533
Website: https://teatroarriaga.eus
GPS coordinates: 43.25948,-2.92492
Latest update: December 6, 2025 16:03
Bilbao combines contemporary art with Gothic architecture and offers visitors insight into Basque culture and history. The Guggenheim Museum draws art enthusiasts from around the world with its sculptural titanium facade, while the Fine Arts Museum houses a significant collection of classical and modern works. The Mercado de la Ribera, an Art Nouveau structure on the riverfront, is Europe's largest covered market and showcases the region's culinary traditions. The old quarter clusters around the Gothic Cathedral of St. James and Plaza Nueva, whose 19th-century arcades shelter bars and restaurants. Along the Nervión, historic bridges like Arenal Bridge and modern structures like Zubizuri Bridge connect both riverbanks. The Begoña Basilica sits above the city and provides views across the rooftops and hills. The Arriaga Theatre and Euskalduna Palace represent different architectural periods, while Azkuna Zentroa repurposes an early 20th-century wine warehouse as a cultural center. The Artxanda funicular railway enables panoramic views across the entire urban area and surrounding mountains.
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