Portugalete, Spain

Welcome to Portugalete, a charming town located in the province of Biscay in the Basque Country of northern Spain. With a population of 45,766 (2019 census), Portugalete is a part of Bilbao’s metropolitan area and is situated at the mouth of the Estuary of Bilbao on the left bank. Despite its small land area of only 3.21 km², Portugalete has a population density of 15,908.4 persons/km², making it the fifth-most densely populated municipality in Spain.

Portugalete has a rich history dating back to the 14th century, when it became the main competitor port for Bilbao. However, it lost its predominant position in 1511 when the trade privileges were granted to the Port of Bilbao instead of Portugalete. Despite its name, it is not near the Spanish border with Portugal and its name is not etymologically related with that country: it derives, instead, from a phonetic adaptation of its Basque name (Portu-Ugaldeta) (edges of the port) to the Spanish language.

The city’s most famous landmark is the Vizcaya Bridge, a transporter bridge that carries a car ferry suspended from a frame by wires attached to wheels on tracks above the cabin. This bridge was declared a World Heritage Site on 13 July 2006 and is a must-see attraction for visitors.

Festivals and events in Portugalete include the San Roque Festivals, which officially last four days from 14 to 17 August, with the main festivities occurring on 15 and 16 August, San Roque Day. Visitors can join in on the celebrations and hear the locals sing the song La Diana Portugaluja outside the Town Hall in the morning of 15 August to mark the eve of San Roque Day.

Monuments in Portugalete include the 15th-century Basílica of Santa María, Salazars Tower, and the Town Hall, in addition to the old medieval arches and streets in the older part of the city. Visitors can also check out Asti-Leku Ikastola, a private school in Portugalete, Club Portugalete, a football club based in the town, and Palacio del Marqués de Portugalete, an opulent residence that once stood in Portugalete.

Overall, Portugalete is a charming town with a rich history and many attractions for visitors to enjoy. Whether you’re interested in exploring the city’s landmarks, attending its festivals, or simply soaking up its charming atmosphere, there’s something for everyone in this hidden gem of the Basque Country.