The Euskalduna Palace

Inaugurated in 1999, this building is considered one of the most striking examples of contemporary Spanish architecture. Made mostly from corten steel, its structure is said to resemble a ship under construction. At first glance, the comparison might not be obvious, but with a little imagination, the vision comes into focus.

The design pays tribute to the former Euskalduna shipyards that once stood here decades ago. Today, the Euskalduna Palace serves as a convention centre and the home of the Bilbao Symphony Orchestra.

This vast, multi-purpose complex spans 53,000 square metres and boasts what’s said to be the largest stage in Spain, possibly even in all of Europe. If you’re feeling curious, take a walk around the back and you’ll come across a sculpture by Salvador Dalí called Terpsichore, created in 1971.

Headless, arms lifted like wings, and draped in a long skirt flowing in the wind, the muse of dance appears weightless, despite weighing a solid two tonnes.