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Bilbao is located in the north of Spain,
in the Cantabrian coastline, 130 km west of the French border
and 400 km north of Madrid.
It is the economic capital of the
Basque Country, the main industrial area of Spain.
The Basque Country's industry has totally
changed during the last 20 years, evolving from a region with
high rates of heavy industries (shipbuilding, steel production,
...) to an area with an outstanding presence of new technology
industry and services (aeronautics, telecomunications, electronics,
tourism, ...).
Thanks to this evolution, its picturesque
landscapes, and its natural environment free of pollution, Bilbao
and its outlying areas enjoy a growing appeal for businessmen
and tourists.
At the same time as this profound change
in economic activity was happening, a no less radical transformation
in its urban architecture, its love for fine arts and cultural
performance took place.
In the last few years, Bilbao has become
a prestigious playground for internationally renowned architects,
sculptors, opera singers, ...
Thank to this new trend, works of Oteiza, Chillida, Tapies, Koons,
Kandinski, Foster, Ghery, Calatrava, etc are present, and new
projects from Pelli and Isozaki are underway.
We are currently witnessing a revival of
the magnificent Bilbao, reminiscent of its glory at the beginning
of 20th century.
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