The Euskalduna Conference Centre and Concert Hall, a striking multifunctional landmark located on the bank of the Nervión River in Bilbao, is a symbol of the city’s industrial rebirth. Situated on the site of the former Euskalduna shipyard, the building occupies a prominent position within the Abandoibarra district. Recognized for its architectural and cultural excellence, the venue was inaugurated on February 19, 1999, and was later honored as the “World’s Best Congress Centre” in 2003, marking its significance on the global stage.
Designed by Federico Soriano and Dolores Palacios, Euskalduna is a tribute to the Basque Country’s maritime heritage. Built to resemble a great ship under construction, its Corten steel exterior echoes the rusted hulls that once dominated Bilbao’s skyline. This industrial aesthetic is bridged by Salvador Dalí’s “Terpsícore” sculpture at the entrance, marking the transition from the city’s gritty past to its artistic future.
The site was originally home to the Astilleros Euskalduna, one of Spain’s most vital shipyards, until its closure in the late 1980s. This paved the way for a radical urban renewal, transforming the waterfront into a world-class cultural district.
Following a significant expansion in 2012, Euskalduna has become a cornerstone of modern Bilbao. Today, it serves as a versatile hub for global summits, exhibitions, and the arts—housing the Bilbao Opera (ABAO) and the Symphony Orchestra (BOS). With its high-end culinary offerings, including the Michelin-starred Etxanobe, it remains a vibrant center for both business and culture in the heart of the city.
Today, The Jewel hosts a blend of uses: an event venue, educational spaces for the ROC and the Frank Sanders Akademie, and since 2016, the Toneelhuis Amsterdam. Creative entrepreneurs also rent spaces within the building, and it has been home to the Michelin-starred restaurant Daalder since 2021.
Palacio Euskalduna, Bilbao
Palacio Euskalduna, Abandoibarra Etorb., 4, Bilbao, Spain