Mediateka Bbk De Azkuna Zentroa

Visiting Mediateka BBK at Azkuna Zentroa, Bilbao, Spain: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Attractions

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction: Mediateka BBK and Azkuna Zentroa – History and Cultural Significance

Located in the heart of Bilbao, Azkuna Zentroa is a striking symbol of the city’s evolution from an industrial center to a leading destination for art, culture, and innovation. Once known as the Alhóndiga—a municipal wine and liquor warehouse designed by architect Ricardo Bastida in the early 20th century—the building was transformed by Philippe Starck into a dynamic cultural complex blending historic character with cutting-edge design. Its iconic Atrium of Cultures, supported by 43 uniquely styled columns, and features like the rooftop glass-bottomed pool, cinemas, and diverse dining options, make it a must-see for visitors (Barceló Guide; Bilbonauta).

At the heart of Azkuna Zentroa is the Mediateka BBK, one of Spain’s largest multimedia libraries. Established in 2010, it offers over 70,000 resources—from books and magazines to films and video games—fostering scientific outreach, technological innovation, and creative engagement within a space that retains the building’s industrial-chic atmosphere (Artsupp; Barceló Guide).

Mediateka BBK is accessible to all, with free entry and extended hours. Borrowing privileges and select activities require an affordable AZ card, ensuring inclusivity. The center is fully accessible to those with reduced mobility and ideally situated near other Bilbao attractions such as the Guggenheim Museum and Casco Viejo (Bilbao Gazte; Euskadi.eus).

Azkuna Zentroa and Mediateka BBK are more than architectural marvels; they serve as catalysts for community engagement and cultural innovation, regularly hosting workshops, family activities, digital literacy training, and major cultural events like the Gutun Zuria Bilbao International Festival of Letters. Supported by a longstanding partnership with BBK, the Mediateka is a beacon of social cohesion and sustainable development (Deia; AZ Memoria 2023).

Azkuna Zentroa: Bilbao’s Iconic Cultural Hub
Mediateka BBK: Guide to Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Cultural Highlights
Facilities, Collections, and Technological Innovations
Visitor Information and Engagement
Conclusion and Further Resources
- Summary and Call to Action
- Sources

Azkuna Zentroa: Bilbao’s Iconic Cultural Hub

Historical Background and Transformation

Originally constructed between 1905 and 1909 as the Alhóndiga, this building was a pioneering example of early 20th-century industrial architecture, notable for its use of reinforced concrete and modernist style (Barceló Guide). The warehouse served Bilbao’s wine and food storage needs until changing industrial trends led to its decline and abandonment in the late 20th century (Bilbonauta).

The building was spectacularly reborn in the early 2000s through the vision of designer Philippe Starck. His renovation preserved the historic exterior while radically transforming the interior into a 43,000-square-meter multifunctional center. Key features include the Atrium of Cultures, supported by 43 architecturally distinct columns, and innovative spaces for cinemas, sports, exhibitions, and the Mediateka BBK (Tourismus Euskadi).

Visitor Information

Visiting Hours:

Monday to Saturday: 10:00–21:00
Sundays and public holidays: 11:00–20:00

Hours may vary during special events. Check the official website before visiting.

Tickets and Entry:

General access to Azkuna Zentroa and Mediateka BBK is free.
Special exhibitions and events may require tickets, available on-site or online.

Accessibility:

Fully accessible for visitors with reduced mobility, including ramps, elevators, and adapted restrooms.

Getting There:

Metro: Moyúa station (Lines 1 and 2), a 5-minute walk
Bus: Multiple lines nearby
Car: Parking available, but public transport is recommended

Nearby Attractions:

Guggenheim Museum Bilbao (15-minute walk)
Casco Viejo (Old Town)
Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park

Events and Cultural Programs

The center offers a diverse calendar of exhibitions, screenings, workshops, and family-friendly activities. Mediateka BBK regularly hosts reading sessions, digital workshops, and collaborations such as immersive installations like “BRUMA. Jugar en paisajes brumosos” (Txikiplan).

FAQ

Is the center suitable for children?
Yes, with child-friendly spaces and activities.

Can I take photos?
Photography for personal use is allowed, but check rules for exhibitions.

Are guided tours available?
Yes, book via the official website or at the visitor center.

Are there restaurants on-site?
Several cafés and restaurants are available.

Mediateka BBK: Guide to Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Cultural Highlights

Foundation and Support

Mediateka BBK opened in 2010, redefining the concept of a library through a partnership between the City of Bilbao and BBK, a leading Basque financial institution. This collaboration ensures ongoing support for cultural programming and accessibility (Deia).

Role, Collections, Accessibility, and Visitor Experience

Collections:
Over 70,000 books, magazines, films, video games, and digital resources, with programming spanning science, literature, technology, and arts (Artsupp).

Accessibility and Free Entry:
Open to all with free entry; borrowing and select activities require an AZ card (€3).

Location & Hours:
Plaza Arriquibar 4, Abando district.
Monday–Saturday: 10:00–20:00
Sundays/Public Holidays: 10:00–14:00 (Bilbao Gazte)

Services:

Free Wi-Fi, public computers, and e-reader loans
Reading areas for all ages
Workshops and educational programs
Fully accessible environment

Innovation:
Pioneering digital literacy initiatives, workshops, and access to e-books and online platforms.

Social Impact:
Programs for children, families, schools, and adults; focus on inclusion, sustainability, and multiculturalism (AZ Memoria 2023).

Tips for Visitors

Consult the Azkuna Zentroa website for current events and exhibitions.
Get your AZ card at the Infopuntua for borrowing privileges and activity discounts.
Explore Azkuna Zentroa’s architectural highlights and combine your visit with nearby attractions.

Sustainability and International Networks

Mediateka BBK actively participates in international cultural networks and sustainability initiatives, connecting with over 100 organizations and hosting international exhibitions (AZ Memoria 2023).

Facilities, Collections, and Technological Innovation

Facilities and Zones

Txikilandia: Children’s area with Bebeteca and spaces for early readers (Sapos y Princesas)
Adult and Youth Areas: Quiet reading, group work, and leisure spaces
Multimedia Labs: Computers, tablets, and creative technology for all users
Gallery Mediateka: Hosts exhibitions and interactive art (Europa Press)
Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, self-service kiosks, accessible restrooms, and adjacent cafés

Collections and Programs

Diverse Media: Fiction, comics, children’s books, films, e-books, and resources on Basque culture
Special Programs: Ipuin txiki (children’s storytelling), Sormenaren txokoa (teen creative workshops), Mediateka Konektatu (school programs), Gutun Zuria Festival (Europa Press)

Technological Innovations

Digital Services: Online catalog, e-book lending, interactive learning stations
Digital Literacy: Workshops on coding, media production, and online safety
Inclusion: Adaptive technologies and multilingual resources
Hybrid Events: In-person and online participation in workshops and lectures

Visitor Information and Engagement

Getting There, Accessibility, Nearby

Address: Plaza Arriquibar, 4, 48010 Bilbao, Bizkaia
Contact: +34 944 01 40 14, official website
Public Transport: Metro (Indautxu), tram, bus; bicycle racks and paid parking nearby
Facilities: Fully accessible with ramps, elevators, and signage in Basque, Spanish, and English
Nearby: Guggenheim Museum, Casco Viejo, and scenic riverfront walks

Visitor Statistics and Impact

Received over 350,000 visitors in 2024
Collection expanded by 3,160 new titles in 2024
Temporary exhibitions drew 11,732 visitors, with high engagement in workshops and tours (Periodicobilbao)

FAQ

What are the visiting hours?
Monday–Saturday: 10:00–20:00; Sundays/Public Holidays: 10:00–14:00

Is there an entrance fee?
No, entry is free. Borrowing requires a library card (AZ card: €3).

How do I get a library card?
Obtain at the Infopuntua or use a Basque Public Library Network card.

Are guided tours available?
Primarily for special programs and school groups; inquire at Infopuntua or online.

Is the center accessible?
Yes, with full accessibility features throughout.

Conclusion and Further Resources

Mediateka BBK at Azkuna Zentroa stands as a vibrant, inclusive, and innovative center for culture and community in Bilbao. With free admission, extensive hours, rich collections, digital services, and diverse engagement programs, it is an essential destination for anyone interested in literature, digital culture, and contemporary art. Plan your visit, discover nearby attractions, and stay informed through Azkuna Zentroa’s online channels and the Audiala app.

Mediateka BBK Interior

Summary and Call to Action

Azkuna Zentroa and Mediateka BBK represent the fusion of Bilbao’s industrial heritage and forward-thinking cultural revitalization. With free access, extensive collections, full accessibility, and a central location near top historical sites, they welcome over 350,000 annual visitors for a rich, immersive experience. Whether your interests lie in literature, digital innovation, or family activities, this landmark offers something for everyone. Plan your visit, follow Azkuna Zentroa and Mediateka BBK on social media, and download the Audiala app for personalized guides and event updates (Barceló Guide; Europa Press; AZ Memoria 2023; Deia).