The weather let up in the morning and we were determined to get out and 'do our thing'.
A small bit about Bilbao. Bilbao was an industrial city through the first two thirds of the 20th century. Like many such cities as globalization expanded in the 60's and 70's, it declined and its waterfront, in particular, became a polluted, eye sore. After a disastrous flood in 1983, a massive redevelopment plan was developed and implemented totally transforming the riverfront and the city.
A key piece is the internationally renowned Guggenheim Museum opened in 1997. Designed by architect Frank Gehry, it has been called one of the most notable architectural works of the late 20th century.
This was our first attempt to do our 'normal' travel activity since Wife's injury. We wanted to be controlled and modest. We decided going into the museum itself was probably not a good idea as we find museums really hard on our bodies. As the building and the environs are a photographic wonderland, that's what we focused on. I'm happy to report we were out for about 2 and half hours and Wife did quite well. Some pain as to be expected, but in general she was out and about including going up and down a number of inclines.
On To The Photos!
The Guggenheim
La Punta de la Salve (the Red Bridge)
This was just a plain ole bridge until 2007 when architect Daniel Buren designed the iconic red arch that now is as much a symbol of the city as the Guggenheim.
Mamam or Mama
That's the name of this statue. Not exactly my image of the 'mother figure' but different strokes for different folks.
Study of an Office Tower
The Dog as an example of Architectural Scaffolding
The Dog is a famous statue at the Guggenheim that is covered in flowers. Except when de-I visits.
Reflection Mania
Other Architecture
All Other
Moving Vistas
Lunch
Wife's foot was starting to show signs of the effort and it looked like it would rain. We'd forgotten that lunch starts later here. But we found a restaurant that had a bar and was serving Pinxtos and Tapas which was plenty for us to make a meal of.
Ensalada Rusa (of course), Tortilla with ham and cheese, seafood salad, and Bodadillo (small sandwich) of Tuna.
1 comment:
the story of how they decided to museum is in itself really fascinating. It was designed to be a state piece, to bring people to the city and to a degree it has helped change the narrative of Bilbao's fortunes.
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