Ensanche-Abandoibarra

In the past, the Ensanche was the economical core of Bilbao city. Many economic, financial and institutional symbols were concentrated in Bilbao: the stock market, Banco de España, the regional council and the Treasure Department.

At trade level, many international fashion firms, perfume industry, jewellery business, etc., can be found in Bilbao, which confers this area an exclusive trade background.

The city's main thoroughfare is the Gran Vía, whose shopping area has been turned pedestrian zone. The Ensanche leads to Plaza Indautxu Square along the Calle Ercilla Street, and the ria along the Calle Colón de Larreategui Street. An impressive trade and economical activity takes place in this area in hundreds of firms, offices and high-level shops.

The city expands along the banks of the ria and Abandoibarra, place where the Bilbao shipyards where located in the past, turned nowadays into the symbol of the new Bilbao: modern, open and cosmopolitan.

The new symbols of the city are situated in this area: the Guggenheim museum, Palacio Euskalduna Convention Centre, Isozaki Towers and the Calatrava footbridge. Green areas, open spots, and huge pedestrian avenues prevail next to the ria, showing certain aspects of Bilbao as a city that looks to the future and to new tendencies.

Attractions: Guggenheim museum, Calatrava footbridge, Parque de Doña Casilda Park, Palacio Euskaduna Convention Centre, University of Deusto.

Settings and atmosphere: Modern, new tendencies, social mixed race.