The Basilica of Begoña is without a doubt one of the most representative buildings in Bilbao, with a special meaning for all the people in Bilbao and Biscay in general (Begoña is the patroness of Biscay).

Situated in a mountain in the outskirts of Bilbao, the current building was built in the 16th century on top of the remains of an old hermitage, where the Virgin had appeared. The building was paid by the citizens and shopkeepers of the city, who decided to build this church, given the growing number of people who attended mass.

It is a three-room basilica temple, without a transept, covered by transept dome from the 17th century and Renaissance porch. Inside it we can find a great wooden carving from the 18th century of the “amatxu” from Begoña.

There is great devotion toward this virgin, and this is shown by the many people who visit the sanctuary everyday, especially the festivities which are organised around it. In the same manner, the sailors in the city salute the virgin with Salve, from the river, when they can see the sanctuary as they are approaching the harbour.

Timetable:
Monday to Friday:
From 11 to 13 h
From 18 to 20 h

Free entrance
Tel.: 944 127 091