Bilbao - Guggenheim Museum Bilbao

The Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao encompasses two major aspects of art & architecture.

The modern curved and undulating structure (built 1991-7) was designed by Frank O. Gehry on what was an estuary of the Nervión River. Even one of Bilbao's principal bridges passes through it and thus the museum wraps itself around the very heart of the city. Partly clad in Titanium, the structure has been interpreted as a silver-scaled school of fish.

Other sections are covered with sandstone, glass curtain walls, and staircases which serve the fact that much of the structure is below grade so as not to conflict with the surrounding city.

The interior contains 19 variously shaped galleries. The modern art collection places particular emphasis on sculpture.

The museum features a rotating permanent collection as well as special exhibitions.