Kafe Antzokia is a café-theater that promotes work in Euskara (the Basque language) and Basque culture in general, although lots of musicians from all over Spain play here regularly. The ground floor is a café-restaurant during the day and turns into a music bar later on at night. The stage is used for all sorts of cultural activities including film shows, theater and concerts. On Thursdays and Fridays there are always live concerts featuring different musical styles as diverse as classical, jazz, folk and pop-rock. There's a regular programs throughout the month of various conferences, discussions, theater, dance and children's activities as well as special events for World Theater Day once a year. Check website for more details.
Museo de las Encartaciones opened in 1934 in the Casa de Juntas de Abellaneda (Town Council) 30km from Bilbao. It is dedicated to the region's history, spanning its remotest beginnings up to the mid 19th century, including the Roman era and Middle Ages. They use audiovisuals, reproductions, models, photos, drawings and other media for the exhibits. The museum also organizes temporary exhibits on topics related to the surrounding area, such as "Industrialization in Cadagua Valley". Another popular exhibit is one known as "The Piece", which features a single object for its artistic, archaeological or traditional value. Admission is free.
Kurutzesantu Museum is located in Durango and houses the famous Kurutziaga Cross which dates back to as far as the 15th century. This Gothic cross has a lot of detailing done on it and is made of sandstone. The cross has relief carvings all over and the lower part has inscriptions of the serpent of Eden with a women's head, Adam and Eve, Fall of Man and the 12 apostles. The upper part of the cross is decorated with carvings of Madonna and Child and the Crucifixion of Jesus. The cross has been declared as a Historic Artistic Monument.
Located at the Euskalduna Shipyard docks, the Museo Marítimo Ría de Bilbao boasts of a huge collection of nautical artifacts and objects. Spread across two floors, the museum's astounding collection showcases the traces and memorabilia belonging to the maritime activities. A tour across the museum will enlighten you on the nautical history and social and economic development of the people associated with the maritime. The museum dock also has an amazing display of various models of ships. With abundance of interesting facts and legacies to explore, this place is truly a delight for the inquisitive minds as well as for the general public as a whole.
Located on Iturribide in an old historic building which was formerly a wine warehouse, the Museo de Pasos de Semana Santa was started to educate people on the Passion Of Jesus Christ and the Nine Brotherhood Of Bilbao. Inside the museum one can find images, figurines and artifacts based on the life of Jesus. Guests to the museum can also experience the rich heritage of the Brotherhood Of Bilbao by visiting the permanent exhibit on the first floor which has interactive displays. Besides this, the museum has a conference center where talks, lectures and social events are held, they also have a souvenir shop where tourists and visitors can purchase relics and mementos. The museums also offer guided tours, check the website for more details.
Narrow winding streets, small squares and neighborhoods comprise this charming district that buzzes with activity every day of the year. As the heart of the old town, this area dates back to 1300 and in 1972 was recognized in statute as having great historical and cultural importance. After the disastrous floods in 1983 much of the district was rebuilt and improved. The Plaza Nueva, Plaza Miguel de Unamuno and Santiago Cathedral are particularly deserving of a visit, as are the many independently-owned boutiques that offer shoppers a wealth of choices.