Zubi Zuri Footbridge

billmoy
billmoy
First Reviewer
4 out of 5
Avg. Member Rating
1
Review
4
Photos
Editor Pick

Zubi Zuri footbridge

  • March 13, 2002
  • Rated 4 of 5 by billmoy from Chicago, Illinois
Zubi Zuri footbridge

This spectacular steel and concrete footbridge (Zubi Zuri translated into "white bridge") was designed by the great Valencian architect Santiago Calatrava, who also designed the expansion of Bilbao's Sondika Airport and its control tower. This pedestrian-only bridge was opened in 1997.

Since my hotel was on the north bank of the river, I crossed this bridge every day. You can access either end of the bridge by ramps or stairs, and the bridge is illuminated at night for dramatic effect. The paving of the bridge deck employs embedded strips of laminated glass, so walking across at nighttime is quite a sensory experience. The curved arc and the slender wires gives the bridge a graceful appearance, as if it were some sort of musical instrument. The bridge carries its 300 ton weight gracefully.

This is a nice spot to observe locals walking their dogs or carrying freshly baked baguettes home. The Zubi Zuri is basically a little old bridge elevated to a sculptural art form and acts as a foil to the nearby Guggenheim Museum.

From journal Bill in Spain - BILBAO

Compare Bilbao Rates

1. Enter travel information

City

2. Select websites to compare rates

Each selected website will open a new window.

Bilbao Travel Deals