Arriaga Theatre

The Arriaga Theatre is located between the old part of Bilbao and the ria, in the centre of the Arriaga Square.

This beautiful neo-baroque building from 1919 is one of the main cultural spots in the city. It's inspired in the Paris Opera, with a great interior sumptuousness. Its eclectic and elegant façade has big balconies supported by atlas, whose look evokes glorious past times.

Both the interior and exterior of the building are interesting settings. The theatre was completely restored in 1986 but it keeps some old furniture and carpets from the Royal National Carpets Factory. Nowadays it is a municipal theatre and offers a wide range of cultural events such as plays, opera, ballet, concerts, etc.

The inside of the building is classical and elegant, and is similar to those great European classic theatres, not only in the stalls but also in the public gallery.

Furthermore, in front of the building there is a wide semicircular cobbled paving square that gives the spot a particular appeal and makes it interesting for filming.

Setting and atmosphere: tradition, classicism, and social activity.