To better understand the transformation of Bilbao and the impact that the Guggenheim Museum has had on the city, the group took part in a guided visit led by architect Bernd Nitsch, from GA Bilbao. PDF summary of activities
Architect Bernd Nitsch began the tour at the Artxanda viewpoint, explaining the history and evolution of Bilbao over the past twenty years. This overview provided the context needed to understand the different urban projects and buildings that have been developed in the city during this period.
To continue the explanation, the delegation travelled to the Ametzola area. Originally created as a neighbourhood to house workers from Bilbao’s industrial sector, it later underwent significant urban development through the Bilbao Ría 2000 project, which marked the beginning of the city’s broader renewal process.
The guided visit concluded with a stop at what is now Bilbao’s main attraction: the Guggenheim Museum. The Australian visitors learned about the history of how the museum ultimately came to be located in Bilbao, despite the fact that the city was not initially among the preferred options at a time when its transformation had not yet begun.
The city’s determination to attract the museum to Bilbao marked the beginning of what later became known as the "Bilbao Effect".The museum’s presence has played a key role in reshaping the city and turning it into the international reference point it is today. "
