Museo de Bellas Artes de Bilbao exterior facade in País Vasco, España

Monument To Arriaga By Francisco Durrio

Visiting the Monument to Arriaga in Bilbao, Spain: Tickets, Hours, and Tips

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction: Discovering a Cultural Landmark

The Monument to Arriaga in Bilbao stands as an evocative tribute to Juan Crisóstomo de Arriaga, the prodigious Basque composer often referred to as the “Spanish Mozart.” More than just a commemorative work, this monument—created by noted sculptor Francisco Durrio—embodies Bilbao’s spirit of artistic innovation and cultural memory. Situated in the tranquil Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park, adjacent to the Bilbao Fine Arts Museum, it offers visitors a unique encounter with early 20th-century Spanish Symbolist sculpture, reflecting Arriaga’s musical legacy and the city’s evolving identity (Wikipedia; Bilbao Fine Arts Museum; Guggenheim Bilbao).

Melpómene sculpture by Francisco Durrio de Madrón at the Museo de Bellas Artes de Bilbao

Introduction
Historical Background
Visiting the Monument
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Plan Your Visit and Stay Connected
Image Gallery
Related Articles
References

Historical Background

Early Proposals and Context

The idea to honor Juan Crisóstomo de Arriaga (1806–1826) with a public monument emerged in 1905, as Bilbao prepared to celebrate the centenary of the composer’s birth. Civic and cultural associations, along with the city council, sought a work that would embody Bilbao’s growing cultural ambition and pride (Wikipedia; De Bilbao Pues). After a competition, Francisco Durrio’s design—submitted after the official deadline but lauded for its artistic merit—was selected.

Commissioning and Delays

Durrio was formally commissioned in 1907, with an initial 18-month timeline. However, his move to Paris and evolving modernist influences resulted in significant delays. Parts of the monument remained in Paris until 1920, drawing frustration from Bilbao’s city council but support from local artists who defended Durrio’s avant-garde vision (Wikipedia; De Bilbao Pues).

Artistic Vision and Symbolism

Rejecting traditional portraiture, Durrio chose to represent Euterpe, the muse of music, as an allegorical, nude bronze figure holding a lyre from which water flows—symbolizing tears for Arriaga’s untimely death. The base is adorned with meditative figures and birds perched on a musical staff, further emphasizing themes of remembrance and the transcendent power of music. The monument reflects Durrio’s Symbolist and Art Nouveau style and draws on Parisian avant-garde influences, including those of Paul Gauguin (Guggenheim Bilbao; Bilbao Fine Arts Museum).

Completion and Inauguration

Financial constraints and the monument’s complexity delayed completion until 1932, with Durrio’s disciple Valentín Dueñas assisting. The monument was installed in Doña Casilda Park and officially inaugurated on August 13, 1933 (Wikipedia).

Controversy and Censorship

In Francoist Spain, the sculpture’s nudity became contentious, leading to its removal in 1948 and replacement with a clothed version by Enrique Barros. The original work was stored for decades (Wikipedia; Bilbao Turismo).

Restoration and Legacy

Following Spain’s return to democracy, the original Euterpe sculpture was reinstated in 1975 and fully restored in 1999, with the water feature returning as a tribute to Arriaga. Today, the monument is hailed as a major work of Spanish public art and a symbol of Bilbao’s cultural rebirth (Guggenheim Bilbao; Bilbao Fine Arts Museum).

Visiting the Monument to Arriaga

Location and Accessibility

Setting: The monument stands at the entrance to the Bilbao Fine Arts Museum, bordering Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park. Its central location makes it a natural stop for museum-goers and park visitors.
Address: Museo Plaza, 2, 48009 Bilbao, Biscay, Spain.
Accessibility: The park and monument area are wheelchair accessible, with smooth, paved paths and nearby public transportation.

How to Get There:

Metro: Moyúa station (10-min walk).
Tram: Abandoibarra or Guggenheim stops.
Bus: Lines 1, 10, 13, 18, 26, 27, 28, 38, 48, 56, 72, 77, and A3247 (Airport).
On foot: Easily walkable from Bilbao’s city center and Guggenheim Museum (Fascinating Spain).

Visiting Hours & Tickets

Monument: Open-air and accessible 24/7, with free entry—no tickets or reservations required.
Bilbao Fine Arts Museum: Wednesday–Monday, 10:00–20:00 (closed Tuesdays). Museum entry €10, with free or reduced rates at select times (Fascinating Spain).

Guided Tours and Events

The monument is often included in museum-led or city walking tours.
Guided tours offer insight into Durrio’s artistic choices and the broader context of Bilbao’s public art.
Check the Bilbao Fine Arts Museum and local tourism offices for schedules.

Photography Tips

Lighting: Early morning and late afternoon provide the best natural light, enhancing the bronze and granite’s colors.
Angles: Capture wide shots with the museum and park, and close-ups of Euterpe’s expressive pose and the lyre’s water feature.
Park Backdrop: Spring and autumn foliage add visual interest.

Nearby Attractions

Bilbao Fine Arts Museum: Houses over 8,000 works, including masterpieces by Goya, El Greco, and Bacon.
Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park: Bilbao’s grandest park, perfect for strolls and relaxation.
Guggenheim Museum: A world-renowned contemporary art landmark, just a short walk away.
Casco Viejo (Old Town): Discover shops, pintxos bars, and historic architecture (Indie Traveller).
Cafés and Amenities: Museum café and nearby establishments offer local Basque cuisine.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is there an admission fee to visit the Monument to Arriaga?
No, the monument is outdoors and free to visit at any time.

What are the monument’s visiting hours?
Accessible 24/7. Museum hours are Wednesday–Monday, 10:00–20:00 (closed Tuesdays).

Is the monument wheelchair accessible?
Yes, with smooth paths and ramps in the surrounding area.

Can I take photographs at the monument?
Yes, photography is permitted. Be considerate of other visitors.

Are guided tours available?
While there are no tours dedicated solely to the monument, it is frequently included in museum and city art walks.

What’s the best time to visit?
Early mornings or late afternoons during spring or autumn offer great light and fewer crowds.

Are there nearby facilities?
Restrooms are inside the museum during opening hours; cafés are close by.

Plan Your Visit and Stay Connected

Combine Experiences: Pair your monument visit with a tour of the Bilbao Fine Arts Museum.
Prepare for Weather: Bilbao’s weather can change quickly; bring an umbrella or raincoat.
Respect the Site: Please do not climb or touch the sculpture to help preserve it.
Stay Updated: Download the Audiala app for guided tours and current information.
Cultural Etiquette: Quiet reflection is encouraged at this memorial; “Eskerrik asko” (thank you in Basque) is appreciated.

Image Gallery

Include high-quality images with descriptive alt text:

“Monument to Juan Crisóstomo de Arriaga Bilbao bronze statue”
“Euterpe sculpture in Doña Casilda Park”
“Monument to Arriaga lyre water detail”
“Bilbao Fine Arts Museum and monument”

Summary and Final Tips

The Monument to Arriaga is more than a statue—it is a testament to artistic resilience and Bilbao’s passion for cultural heritage. Through Francisco Durrio’s visionary design, visitors experience a fusion of modernist aesthetics and deep symbolism, celebrating not only Arriaga’s legacy but also the city’s ongoing dialogue between tradition and innovation. Its accessible location, stunning park setting, and proximity to other major attractions make it an essential destination for anyone exploring Bilbao’s historical sites. For a richer experience, utilize digital resources like the Audiala app, and stay connected via social media for updates on events and exhibitions (Bilbao Turismo; Museo de Bellas Artes; Wikipedia).