Bilbao has long attracted art lovers with its striking architecture and world-class museums. Now, the northern Spanish city is celebrating another major cultural milestone with the opening of a spectacular new extension to its Fine Arts Museum.

Designed by renowned British architect Norman Foster in collaboration with Basque architect Luis María Uriarte, the €45 million project opened to the public on 6 October 2026.

Featuring a dramatic elevated pavilion, spacious galleries and panoramic city views, the transformation promises to strengthen Bilbao's reputation as one of Europe's most exciting cultural destinations.

A Floating Pavilion Above The City

The centrepiece of the renovation is a striking architectural structure that appears to float above the museum's existing buildings.

Designed by Foster + Partners and Uriarte, the extension features two curved upper floors supported by enormous V-shaped columns. Large windows allow natural light to fill the interiors, creating an inviting atmosphere for visitors.

The design carefully combines contemporary architecture with the museum's historic character. The original neoclassical building dates from 1945, while a modernist extension influenced by Ludwig Mies van der Rohe was added during the 1970s.

Rather than replacing these structures, the architects have connected them through a unified design that preserves their distinctive identities.

More Space For Extraordinary Art

The expansion doubles the museum's exhibition space to approximately 6,000 square metres, while another 8,000 square metres of existing galleries have been remodelled.

This additional space will allow the museum to display more works from its extensive permanent collection. Its holdings include approximately 2,000 paintings, 500 sculptures and 800 decorative art objects. Visitors can explore works by celebrated artists such as El Greco, Francisco Goya, Lucas Cranach the Elder, Mary Cassatt, Paul Gauguin and Richard Serra.

The collection also includes archaeological objects and Asian art, offering an artistic journey across different cultures and historical periods. Exhibitions will be organised both chronologically and thematically, helping visitors discover connections between artistic movements.

A Brighter Welcome For Visitors

One of the most significant changes is the creation of a new 1,000-square-metre entrance atrium. Filled with natural light, this spacious area will serve as the museum's main visitor centre and provide convenient access to the galleries.

The historic entrance of the 1945 building has also been restored, preserving its classical archway and decorative sculptures.

Additional facilities include an educational centre, family activity spaces, workshops and a dedicated area for architecture and design. A new documentation and research centre will support academic work and provide further opportunities to study the museum's collections. On the upper floor, visitors will find temporary exhibition galleries, a viewing terrace and a restaurant overlooking the surrounding park and hills.

Bringing Bilbao's Museums Closer

The renovation also aims to strengthen connections between the Fine Arts Museum and the nearby Guggenheim Museum Bilbao. Located approximately 500 metres apart, the two institutions offer different perspectives on art and cultural history.

Museum director Miguel Zugaza explained that the architectural proposal was selected partly because it respected the existing buildings while introducing a new dimension to the visitor experience.

He also emphasised that the project would help reposition the museum within the city, improving its relationship with the Guggenheim.

Outside the building, pedestrian improvements include a redesigned roundabout and fewer traffic lanes, making the surrounding area more welcoming.

A New Chapter For Bilbao

The ambitious project has received support from public institutions and the BBK Banking Foundation. Beyond increasing exhibition capacity, the renovation reflects Bilbao's continued investment in cultural development and architectural innovation.

Zugaza believes the museum's distinctive collection and history complement the Guggenheim's international reputation, creating additional opportunities for visitors to explore the region's artistic heritage.

With expanded galleries, improved public spaces and a remarkable new architectural landmark, the Fine Arts Museum is entering an exciting new era. For travellers interested in art, design and architecture, Bilbao now offers another compelling reason to visit.