Many of the most impressive historical monuments in Bilbao have been converted into government buildings. These include Bilbao's city hall, Ayuntamiento de Bilbao, dating back to 1890. This building features a Baroque-style facade and lavish decor. Free guided tours are available daily. Constructed in the late 1800s, the Edificio de la Diputacion Foral de Vizcaya is the headquarters of the Statutory Deputation of Vizcaya. The building contains several stone carvings and frescoes. Tours are available by reservation.
Once private residences, several palaces in Bilbao are now available for public and government use. These include the Palacio de Chavarri, which is the official home of the Vizcayan Civil Government. The building was commissioned by a business man named Victor Chavarri and built in 1889 by architect Paul Ankar. Made of marble, the palace has a double-sloping roof and is recognizable by the different types and shapes of windows and doors in the facade. Palacio de Olabarri o Palacete del Puerto was built in 1890 as a family residence for a wealthy businessman by the name of Jose Maria de Olabarri. Located in Paseo del Campo Volantin, it is now the official headquarters of the Bilbao Port Authority. Free tours are available at both locations daily.
As a port city, bridges are important to Bilbao. The Puente Colgante, built in the late 1800s, lies on the outskirts of Bilbao, connecting the Getxo and Portugalete areas. This iron structure has a moving mechanical platform to transport people and vehicles across the water. Elevator viewpoints and tours are free daily. Located next to the Church of San Anton, Puente de San Anton is one of the most famous bridges in Bilbao. A major crossing point within the city, the bridge was originally built prior to the Foundational Charter of Bilbao in 1300. The bridge was rebuilt in 1602 and renovated in the early 20th century. It is open daily and is free to the public.
As Bilbao is a city with a Roman Catholic background, several churches act as historical monuments to the foundations of the culture. One of these, Santiago Cathedral, was built on a shrine dating back to the Jacobean period. The structure of the church embodies some of the original ruins, making it the oldest building in the city. The facade however, was built in the 1800s. Saint Nicholas of Bari Church was built in 1743 to honor the patron saint of sailors. The Baroque facade of the building stands out against the more common Gothic-styled churches of the region. The monument is host to several alter pieces and sculptures by artist Juan de Mena. Free tours of both buildings are available to the public.
Bilbao is home to many statues dedicated to historical notables. A statue of city founder Don Diego Lopez de Haro resided in a series of locations around the city until it was permanently placed at Plaza Circular in 1900. Plaza de Miguel de Unamuno Bilbao is dedicated to author Miguel de Unamuno y Jugo, one of Bilbao's most famous residents. The author was born in a home that still stands on Ronda Street, near the square that bears his name and a statue dedicated to him. Aside from the historical significance of the monument, tourists and locals come to the area for nightlife, fiestas and people watching.
