Azkuna Zentroa is a cultural and leisure centre in Bilbao’s Indautxu district, housed in a former wine warehouse. Philippe Starck redesigned the interior while preserving the building’s historic exterior. In the central atrium, look up at 43 columns in different styles and the glass-bottomed swimming pool above. The centre also has exhibition spaces, cinemas, a library and venues for cultural events. Its main atrium is free to enter, so you can see the architecture even without attending a show or exhibition.
From wine warehouse to cultural centre
Azkuna Zentroa occupies Bilbao’s former municipal wine warehouse, known as Alhóndiga. Designed by Ricardo Bastida, the building served the city’s wine trade before being repurposed as a cultural and leisure centre. Philippe Starck led the redesign, which opened in 2010. The centre takes its current name from Iñaki Azkuna, Bilbao’s former mayor.
The renovation kept the historic exterior and changed the experience inside. Today, the building brings together cultural activities and leisure facilities. Its programme includes contemporary art, live arts, film and audiovisual work, digital culture, literature and events focused on society.
The atrium and its 43 columns
The central covered square is one of the building’s most distinctive spaces. Its 43 columns differ in style and material, giving the atrium a varied appearance as you move through it. The columns support the structures above, which hold different parts of the centre.
Look up from the atrium to see the transparent floor of the swimming pool overhead. Swimmers are visible from below, turning a working sports facility into part of the building’s interior view. The pool is on the upper level, alongside other sports facilities.
Exhibitions, cinema and other activities
The centre has exhibition spaces and cinemas, as well as a library, auditorium, shops and places to eat. Its programme can include exhibitions, film screenings, performances, talks and workshops. Temporary displays are also held in the basement exhibition space.
Azkuna Zentroa works as a place to visit for a specific event or to explore the building itself. The main atrium is free to enter, but exhibitions and events have their own arrangements. Check the centre’s programme if you want to plan around a particular screening, performance or exhibition.
Planning your visit
A guided tour is one way to learn about the building’s history and design as you explore its spaces. The tour duration given for a visit is 45 minutes. If you prefer to look around independently, you can start in the atrium, take in the columns and view of the pool, then check which exhibitions or events are running.
Azkuna Zentroa is at Arriquíbar Plaza, 4, in Bilbao’s Indautxu district. Weekdays are a practical choice if you want to avoid the busier weekend crowds. The rooftop terrace has views across the city, so include it if it is open during your visit.
Häufige Fragen
Is Azkuna Zentroa free to enter?
The main atrium is free to enter. Exhibitions and events may have separate arrangements.
What is Azkuna Zentroa known for?
The former wine warehouse is known for its redesign by Philippe Starck, its atrium with 43 varied columns and the glass-bottomed swimming pool visible from below.
How long do you need at Azkuna Zentroa?
A guided tour takes 45 minutes. Allow about 45 minutes to an hour for a short visit.
What can you do at Azkuna Zentroa?
You can explore the atrium, visit exhibitions, attend cultural events or see a film. The building also has a library, shops and places to eat.
