Looking At The Bilbao Effect

The concept of using cultural facilities to spur economic development was pioneering by this Spanish rust belt city 10 years ago. Today, many cities want to follow in its footsteps.

1 minute read

October 21, 2007, 7:00 AM PDT

By Christian Madera @http://www.twitter.com/cpmadera


"Can it be that the Bilbao Guggenheim has been with us for only ten years?

It feels more like a lifetime.

A quick "Google" search reveals a partial explanation in the sheer presence of this museum in the communications environment.

The phrase "Bilbao Effect" shows up 12,300 times on the internet."

"For urban planners, politicians, museum directors and trustees, it means the transformation of a city by a new museum or cultural facility into a vibrant and attractive place for residents, visitors and inward investment."

Friday, October 19, 2007 in The Art Newspaper

portrait of professional woman

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching. Mary G., Urban Planner

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching.

Mary G., Urban Planner

Use Code 25for25 at checkout for 25% off an annual plan!

Logo for Planetizen Federal Action Tracker with black and white image of U.S. Capitol with water ripple overlay.

Planetizen Federal Action Tracker

A weekly monitor of how Trump’s orders and actions are impacting planners and planning in America.

3 hours ago - Diana Ionescu

Front of Walmart store with sign.

Walmart Announces Nationwide EV Charging Network

The company plans to install electric car chargers at most of its stores by 2030.

May 7, 2025 - Inc.

Aerial view of Chicago with river in foreground.

Chicago Approves Green Affordable Housing Plan

The Mayor’s plan calls for creating a nonprofit housing corporation tasked with building affordable housing that meets Green Building standards.

May 8, 2025 - CBS News Chicago

Close-up on e-scooters parked in painted designated parking area on city street.

E-Scooter Parking: A Guide

How smart planning — and ample designated parking — can end conflicts over shared scooters.

30 minutes ago - Streetsblog USA

Aerial view of Bozeman, Montana with mountains in background.

‘It’s Been 50 years’: Public Transit Law Passes in Montana

Legislation would fix transportation district issue, allow for greater reach on city bus routes.

1 hour ago - Daily Montanan

Illustration of nighttime city with white lines connecting nodes to illustrate technology and connectivity

Top 10 Tech-Ready Cities

An index ranks U.S. cities based on their preparedness for the ‘smart city future.’

2 hours ago - Smart Cities Dive