Azkuna Zentroa
About
Azkuna Zentroa (formerly Alhóndiga Bilbao) is a striking modernist landmark in the heart of Bilbao, Spain, that has been transformed from a 19th‑century wine warehouse into a vibrant multi‑purpose cultural hub. Designed by Philippe Starck in collaboration with Thibaut Mathieu, the centre now hosts a cinema multiplex, a fitness centre, a library, shops, a restaurant, and a variety of exhibition and performance spaces, making it a destination for art lovers, families, and history enthusiasts alike. The building’s bold, glass‑roofed facade and innovative interior layout symbolize Bilbao’s renaissance as a city of culture and forward‑thinking design. Whether guests attend a contemporary art exhibition, enjoy a film screened in the state‑of‑the‑art auditorium, or relax in the well‑equipped fitness and wellness areas, they experience a seamless blend of leisure, learning, and community engagement. Opened in stages between May 2010 and October 2010, Azkuna Zentroa has become a cultural anchor for the region, offering free public access to its spaces and a wealth of programming—from seasonal festivals to regular art workshops—while still providing ticketed events and events for which reservations are recommended or required during peak periods.
Highlights
- Multi‑Purpose Cultural Centre
- Contemporary Architecture by Philippe Starck
- Cinema Multiplex
- Fitness Centre
- Library
Must-See Areas
Good to Know
Good for
Best time to visit
Spring and autumn, when the weather is mild and crowds are thinner.
At a glance
- Typical visit: about 1 hour 30 minutes