The Basque Museum is currently closed to the public due to its comprehensive renovation. We apologize for the inconvenience.

The Euskal Museoa or Museo Vasco (Basque Museum), located in the heart of Bilbao’s Casco Viejo, is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the cultural, historical, and ethnographic heritage of the Basque people. Housed in a former 17th-century Jesuit college, the museum combines historical architecture with a vast and diverse collection.

Founded in 1921, the museum was established to promote the study and appreciation of Basque culture and history. Its location in the old Jesuit building adds historical significance, as the structure itself is a fine example of Baroque architecture.

The museum’s permanent collection is divided into various sections that cover different aspects of Basque heritage:

• Ethnography and Daily Life: Displays of traditional tools, clothing, and household items that reflect the daily lives of Basque communities.
• Seafaring and Fishing: Artifacts related to maritime traditions, including fishing gear and ship models, emphasizing the Basque connection to the sea.
• Traditional Sports and Pastimes: Exhibits highlighting herri kirolak (Basque rural sports) and other recreational activities.
• Religion and Spirituality: Religious artifacts, including altarpieces and votive offerings, showcasing the region’s spiritual practices.
• Historical Artifacts: Items from the prehistoric and medieval periods, including ancient tools, ceramics, and weapons.

One of the museum’s most notable features is the Mikeldi Idol, a prehistoric stone sculpture believed to represent an animal, which is one of the most iconic symbols of Basque prehistory.

The Museo Vasco is a must-visit for anyone interested in understanding the rich cultural and historical identity of the Basque Country, offering a comprehensive journey through its traditions and way of life.

More information: https://www.euskalmuseoa.eus/es/