Coliseo Albia

Coliseo Albia is an opera house in central Bilbao with a grand facade and multiple entrances positioned between Alameda Urquijo and Lutxana streets. The building displays classical architecture with ornate details and occupied a prominent location as one of the city's major entertainment venues.

The building opened in September 1916 on the site of the former Campos Eliseos gardens. It functioned as an opera house for many decades before being converted into a hotel and casino.

The theater presented Verdi's Otello as its first performance and later hosted performances by Maria Callas, Montserrat Caballé, and Luciano Pavarotti.

The building now houses the Sercotel Coliseo hotel with modern rooms while preserving its original structure. Its central location makes it easily accessible and the entrance is clearly marked.

The building survived floods, explosions, and fires throughout its years as a cultural venue. Its resilience makes it a remarkable example of urban endurance across generations.

Location: Bilbao

Inception: September 23, 1916

Architects: Rafael Fontán

Official opening: 1916

Address: Urkixo zumarkalea

GPS coordinates: 43.26044,-2.93100

Latest update: December 14, 2025 18:07