San Nikolas Eliza is an 18th-century Baroque church in Bilbao’s Casco Viejo, on Plazuela de San Nicolás near Plaza Nueva. Completed in 1756, it has an unusual Greek-cross plan set within a square and a dome with a chamfered prism shape. Inside, look for five Rococo altarpieces by Juan Pascual de Mena, including the central altar dedicated to Saint Nicholas of Bari. The church also has a place in Bilbao’s civic history, with connections to the Cádiz Liberal Constitution and the Carlist Wars.
The church and its design
San Nikolas Eliza stands in Plazuela de San Nicolás, in Bilbao’s Casco Viejo, near Plaza Nueva. Its Baroque design was directed by master builder Ignacio de Ibero. Construction began in 1743 and the church was completed in 1756.
The floor plan is a Greek cross set inside a square, an uncommon arrangement for its time. Above it rises a dome shaped like a chamfered prism. From the front, the central belfry partly hides the dome. The façade has a central entrance between two towers, with a bronze relief in the tympanum above the doorway.
The altarpieces inside
Five Rococo altarpieces by Juan Pascual de Mena are among the church’s main works. The high chapel’s central altarpiece is dedicated to Saint Nicholas of Bari. It also includes figures of Saint Laurence, Saint Vincent, the crucified Christ, Saint Peter and Saint Paul.
Sculptures of Charity and Fortitude flank the central pinnacle. The altarpieces were restored between 2007 and 2011. Take time to look at each one, including the carved details.
A place in Bilbao’s history
San Nikolas Eliza has been part of Bilbao’s civic life as well as its religious life. The church is associated with the signing of the Cádiz Liberal Constitution in 1812. During the Carlist Wars, it was used as a munitions store.
FAQ
Where is San Nikolas Eliza?
It is in Plazuela de San Nicolás in Bilbao’s Casco Viejo, near Plaza Nueva.
What is notable inside the church?
The church has five Rococo altarpieces by Juan Pascual de Mena. The central altarpiece is dedicated to Saint Nicholas of Bari.
When was San Nikolas Eliza completed?
The church was completed in 1756, after construction began in 1743.
Is there an entry fee?
The available information describes entry as free.
