Puente De La Merced

Puente de la Merced Bilbao, Spain – Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Sites Guide

Date: 03/07/2025

Introduction

Spanning the Nervión River, the Puente de la Merced is one of Bilbao’s most enduring historical landmarks. This guide provides detailed information for visitors, including the bridge’s history, architectural highlights, practical travel advice, nearby attractions, and the captivating legends that make it an essential stop for anyone interested in the story of Bilbao. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a lover of urban legends, or simply exploring the city, the Puente de la Merced offers a unique perspective on Bilbao’s evolution from a medieval port to a modern metropolis.

Bilbao Puente de la Merced bridge over the river with city buildings in the background

Introduction
Historical Background
- Origins and Construction
- Architectural Features and Evolution
Cultural Significance and Local Lore
- The Legend of the Winged Figures
- Community Traditions
Visiting Information
Nearby Attractions
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Tips for a Memorable Visit
Summary and Recommendations
References

Historical Background

Origins and Construction

The origins of the Puente de la Merced are closely tied to Bilbao’s rapid urban and industrial development during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Originally, a simple wooden footbridge was constructed at the site to allow the Mercedarian nuns and parishioners to reach the convent and church of La Merced, founded in 1621 (Edificios Insignes Desaparecidos en Bilbao). This wooden structure was frequently rebuilt due to damage from increasing traffic and the river’s conditions (Los Puentes de Bilbao).

After its destruction in 1874, a provisional bridge was erected, followed by the inauguration of a more robust iron structure in 1887, designed by engineer Ernesto Hoffmeyer Zubeldia. The bridge was destroyed again during the Spanish Civil War in 1937 and rebuilt in 1938 by engineer Manuel Gil de Santibáñez, reflecting the city’s resilience and adaptability (Edificios Insignes Desaparecidos en Bilbao).

Architectural Features and Evolution

The current Puente de la Merced is a product of collective engineering, with its final 1938 design signed by multiple architects and civil engineers, a testament to Bilbao’s commitment to technical excellence (Los Puentes de Bilbao). The bridge is constructed primarily of steel and concrete, showcasing a functional urban style characteristic of the city’s industrial era. It accommodates both pedestrian and vehicular traffic, linking the Casco Viejo (Old Town) with the multicultural San Francisco district (Turismo Vasco).

A signature feature is the series of eight cast-iron lampposts, each adorned with paired “seres alados” (winged figures), which have become icons of the bridge and the city’s folklore (Bilbao Visita Virtual).

Cultural Significance and Local Lore

The Legend of the Winged Figures

The Puente de la Merced is steeped in legend, most notably the tale of the mysterious winged beings that adorn its lampposts. Local tradition claims that these creatures—described variously as angels, dragons, or winged lions—were benevolent spirits inhabiting the woods near the San Francisco neighborhood in the late medieval period (El País; National Geographic). These beings are said to bestow luck and love on those who touch them, particularly people who are alone or in distress (Bilbao Guest Blog).

The legend was further popularized in modern times by playful local organizations, and today, visitors and locals alike engage with the sculptures, keeping the tradition alive (Bilbao Visita Virtual).

Community Traditions

The ritual of touching the chest or back of the winged figures to invite good fortune and happiness is a beloved custom. This act, particularly meaningful for those seeking love or companionship, is often highlighted in guided tours and local festivals. The bridge’s name, rooted in the adjacent convent and church of La Merced, further ties it to Bilbao’s religious and civic traditions (Wikipedia).

Visiting Information

Hours, Accessibility, and Getting There

Visiting Hours: Open 24 hours a day, seven days a week—no entry fee or ticket required.
Accessibility: The bridge is fully accessible to pedestrians, wheelchairs, and strollers, with ramps and wide walkways. Surfaces are non-slip but can be wet during rain.
Getting There: Centrally located, the bridge is a short walk from Casco Viejo. The nearest metro station is Casco Viejo (Lines 1 and 2), and several Bilbobus lines stop nearby. Tram users can alight at “La Ribera,” just a few minutes away. Parking garages are available at Arenal and Plaza Nueva, but public transportation is recommended due to limited street parking (Bilbao Turismo).

Guided Tours and Events

Several local tour operators include Puente de la Merced in walking and cycling tours of Bilbao’s historical sites. These tours highlight the bridge’s history, architecture, and urban legends. During major events like Aste Nagusia, the bridge becomes a hub of cultural activity (Bilbao Turismo).

Travel Tips and Amenities

Restrooms: Available at Mercado de la Ribera and nearby cafés.
Food and Drink: Numerous pintxos bars and restaurants are located in Casco Viejo and along the riverbanks (Taste Bilbao!).
Wi-Fi: Free public Wi-Fi is accessible in the city center and at Mercado de la Ribera.
Safety: Bilbao is considered very safe, but standard precautions are advised, especially during festivals.

Nearby Attractions

Casco Viejo: The historic old town, renowned for its narrow streets, bars, and shops.
Mercado de la Ribera: A vibrant market offering local produce and Basque cuisine.
Sala Bilborock: A cultural venue for concerts and performances, housed in the former church of La Merced.
Bilbao La Vieja: A lively, multicultural district with street art and nightlife.
Other Bridges: Explore neighboring crossings like the Puente de San Antón, Zubizuri, and the UNESCO-listed Vizcaya Bridge (Go Ask a Local).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Are tickets required to visit Puente de la Merced?
A: No, the bridge is a public space with free, unrestricted access at all times.

Q: Is the bridge accessible to wheelchairs and strollers?
A: Yes, the bridge features ramps and smooth pavements for easy access.

Q: What is the best way to get to the bridge?
A: Public transport is recommended; Casco Viejo metro station and several bus lines are close by.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, many local tours include the bridge as part of Bilbao’s historical and cultural routes.

Q: What are the best times for photography?
A: Early morning and late afternoon offer optimal lighting, and the bridge’s illumination at night provides beautiful views.

Q: Are there facilities nearby?
A: Restrooms, cafés, shops, and tourist information are all available within walking distance.

Tips for a Memorable Visit

Combine your visit with a stroll through Casco Viejo or a meal at Mercado de la Ribera.
Participate in the local tradition by gently touching the winged figures for good luck.
Check local event calendars for festivals or guided tours.
Bring a camera—sunrise and sunset provide stunning photo opportunities.
Use Bilbao’s efficient public transport for easy access and sustainable travel.

Summary and Recommendations

The Puente de la Merced encapsulates Bilbao’s remarkable blend of history, resilience, artistry, and folklore. Open and accessible around the clock, it serves as both a practical crossing and a canvas for local tradition, with its unique winged lampposts and enduring legends. Its strategic location near major cultural attractions ensures a rich urban experience for every visitor. From architectural admirers to lovers of myth, the bridge stands as a living chapter of Bilbao’s story—one where every step across connects you to centuries of local heritage (Los Puentes de Bilbao; National Geographic).

Download the Audiala app for curated walking tours and up-to-date information, and explore related content on Bilbao’s historical sites for a deeper dive into the city’s vibrant culture.