Puente Pedro Arrupe, Steel and wood footbridge in Bilbao, Spain
Puente Pedro Arrupe is a pedestrian and cycling bridge made of steel and wood that crosses the Nervion River in Bilbao. The structure links the Abandoibarra Walk with the Avenue of the Universities, providing easy passage between both riverbanks.
The bridge was designed by engineer Jose Antonio Fernandez Ordonez in the early 2000s and later completed by his son Lorenzo. It was built as part of Bilbao's urban renewal and improved connections between different areas of the city.
The bridge carries the name of Pedro Arrupe, a notable Jesuit from Bilbao who served as Superior General of the Society of Jesus. His name links the modern infrastructure with the city's religious heritage.
The bridge has an elevator and wooden pathways that provide access between different neighborhoods and remain open throughout the day. The elevator is particularly helpful for people with limited mobility or when transporting bicycles across the overpass.
The bridge is covered with Lapacho wood, a durable material that makes the surface slip-resistant and ensures long lifespan. This tropical wood gives the structure a distinctive warm tone that stands apart from typical modern constructions.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
