Bilbao, Spain is one of the finest and modern cities of the world. With a population of not less than a million, Bilbao is a thriving metropolis. The city has carved a niche among the leading cities of the country with its architectural brilliance, economic resurgence and social development. Bilbao in Spain takes pride of its excellent network of transportation. The roads and railway lines are superbly maintained with latest technologies and connect the city with other major cities of the country.
Bilbao Architecture :The Guggenheim Museum is the must-see example of modern architecture in Bilbao. Designed by American architect Frank Gehry, the building is a conglomeration of a variety of textures (glass and titanium) and shapes, creating a sculpture in its own right. Both admired and abhorred by residents and visitors alike, the building's shape and textures complement the modern art held within the museum's walls.
For examples of more traditional architecture, take a walk into the Casa Viejo, or Old Quarter, and visit the Iglesia de San Nicolas and Basilica de Begona. The Iglesia de San Nicolas, completed in the late nineteenth century, is an excellent example of Baroque architecture. The Basilica de Begona, built in the early 1500s, exemplifies Gothic architecture. The Catedral de Santiago, located in the Plaza de Santiago, was originally built in the late fourteenth century, was rebuilt in the sixteenth century after a fire destroyed most of the building. As the oldest church in Bilbao, the cathedral also exemplifies Gothic architecture. The cathedral is also a stop along the pilgrimage route of El Camino de Santiago.
Bilbao Health & Safety :
While descriptions of Bilbao can be less than flattering, these descriptions do not reflect a high crime rate. As with any locale you are unfamiliar with, it pays to be alert while traveling within large crowds, especially during the high season. Pickpockets can quickly pick you clean of your money or passport, quickly turning a dream vacation into a nightmare. Make use of your hotel's safe to protect items such as any jewelry you might have brought with you (which, in reality, is best left at home), extra monies, credit cards, and passports. Keep your eyes and a hand on bags at all times, and do not leave your items unattended.
In addition, when traveling abroad, it is often easiest to travel with traveller checques, which are easier to replace than cash or credit cards if stolen. Keep a copy of the front page from your passport, any tickets, traveller checque serial numbers, and any other important information in a location separate from the originals. You may also consider leaving a copy of these pages with someone back at home, whom you can contact if necessary if you get into trouble abroad. These copies will come in handy if you are a victim of theft.
