Azkuna Zentroa facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Azkuna Zentroa |
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Alhóndiga Municipal de Bilbao
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Inside Azkuna Zentroa.
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| General information | |
| Type | Multi-purpose venue |
| Architectural style | Modernism |
| Location | Bilbao, Basque Country |
| Address | 4, Arriquibar Square |
| Country | Spain |
| Coordinates | 43°15′35″N 2°56′13″W / 43.25972°N 2.93694°W |
| Construction started | 1905 |
| Completed | 1909 |
| Renovated | 2001-2010 |
| Cost | 71 million euros |
| Technical details | |
| Floor area | 43,000 m2 (460,000 sq ft) |
| Design and construction | |
| Architect | Ricardo Bastida |
| Other designers | Philippe Starck, Thibaut Mathieu |
Azkuna Zentroa is a fantastic multi-purpose building in Bilbao, Spain. It's a busy place where people can enjoy culture and fun activities. This amazing center has a cinema, a fitness area, a library, and even shops and restaurants. It's a modern hub for everyone in the city.
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Discover Azkuna Zentroa: Bilbao's Culture Hub
Azkuna Zentroa is known as a "Culture and Leisure Centre." It was designed by the famous French designer Philippe Starck. He worked with Thibaut Mathieu to create this unique space. The center first opened its doors to the public in 2010.
From Wine Market to Modern Center
The building where Azkuna Zentroa now stands has a long history. It was originally built as a wine market. In Spanish, a building like this is called an alhóndiga. A Basque architect named Ricardo Bastida designed it. The wine market officially opened way back in 1909.
The Building's Transformation
By the 1970s, the old wine market was no longer used. It sat empty for many years. People had different ideas for what to do with it. Some thought about turning it into homes or a modern art museum. Others even suggested tearing it down!
Finally, in 1994, a decision was made. The building would be renovated and turned into a sports and culture center. This was a big project that took many years. The Basque Government recognized its importance. In 1999, they declared it a "Public Property of Cultural Interest." This means it's a special building that needs to be protected.
What Can You Do at Azkuna Zentroa?
Today, Azkuna Zentroa is a lively place with lots to do. It offers many different activities for people of all ages.
Fun Activities and Facilities
- Cinema: You can watch the latest movies in its modern cinema.
- Fitness Centre: There's a place to exercise and stay healthy.
- Library: A quiet space to read books and study.
- Showrooms: These areas host different art exhibits and displays.
- Auditorium: This is where live performances and events take place.
- Shops and Restaurants: You can find places to eat and buy things.
A Tribute: The Name Change
The center was first known as Alhóndiga Bilbao. However, in March 2015, its name was officially changed. It became Azkuna Zentroa. This new name honors Iñaki Azkuna, who was the mayor of Bilbao. He passed away, and the city wanted to remember his contributions. The name "Azkuna Zentroa" means "Azkuna Centre" in the Basque language.
See also
In Spanish: Azkuna Zentroa para niños
