Zorrotzaurre: Bilbao’s Island Connected by a New Bridge
The Bilbao estuary is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks, but did you know Bilbao also has an island? Zorrotzaurre, a new urban regeneration area, is set to become a key spot for locals and visitors alike.
Recently, a new bridge was inaugurated over the Nervión River, connecting Zorrotzaurre to the San Inazio neighborhood. Together with the Frank Gehry Bridge, which links Zorrotzaurre to Deusto, the island is already shaping up to be a perfect addition to Bilbao’s tourist routes, including the famous Bridge Route.
Zorrotzaurre in Bilbao: a Promising Area
Zorrotzaurre, formerly an industrial peninsula, became an island after the Deusto Canal was excavated. Now connected to both San Inazio and Deusto, the area is undergoing a transformation, following Bilbao’s successful transition from an industrial hub to a cultural and service-oriented city.
Zaha Hadid’s Vision for Zorrotzaurre
The transformation began in 2001 when public and private owners teamed up to develop the area sustainably. In 2004, renowned architect Zaha Hadid designed an urban plan covering over 800,000 m² with a focus on housing, leisure, business, and education.
Zorrotzaurre’s Future: A Cutting-Edge District
In the coming years, Zorrotzaurre is poised to become one of Bilbao’s most modern and sustainable neighborhoods. It will feature riverside promenades, technological parks, and public recreational areas.
Reasons to Visit Zorrotzaurre
If you’re interested in architecture and urban planning, visiting Zorrotzaurre offers a glimpse of Bilbao’s future in the making.
Moreover, the island hosts important educational centers, such as DigiPen Institute of Technology, Kunsthal School of Design, and future campuses for universities like the University of Navarra and the University of the Arts London.
With projects underway to create large public spaces, Zorrotzaurre is set to become a landmark in Bilbao, perfect for living, working, and enjoying.
If you visit Bilbao, don’t miss the chance to cross one of its bridges, discover its views, and explore the potential of this developing district.
