Bachelor’s students in IE University’s humanities programs recently visited Bilbao on a study trip to discover the rich Basque culture and everything the famed riverside city has to offer.
Those unfamiliar with the regional cultures and peoples of Spain may find themselves asking, “Who are the Basque people?” Known for their deep pride in their homeland and their language, the people of Euskal Herria (“Basque Country” in the local language) possess a rich cultural heritage. The Basque Country is a coastal mountainous region in Northern Spain bordering France. The region’s major cities are Bilbao, Donostia-San Sebastian and Vitoria-Gasteiz.
For much of its history, Bilbao was an industrial hub. In recent years, however, it has become a cultural center for architecture, urbanism and fine arts. Here, traditional Basque culture blends with modern tastes. Visitors can take in the sights while sampling Bilbao’s pintxos—the Basque take on Spain’s famous “tapas.”
What to see in Bilbao on a study trip
IE University’s trip to Bilbao was first proposed by two students who wanted to see the temporary Hilma af Klint exhibition on display at the Guggenheim. It was made a reality with the support of humanities professor Daniel Valtueña. The group participated in a guided tour of the exhibition, as well as visiting the Guggenheim’s permanent collection and the Museum of Fine Arts of Bilbao.
The students saw firsthand the effect that the Guggenheim had on the city by boosting urban development and tourism. The trip also helped them understand the different models of funding, community engagement and sustainability as they analyzed the museums’ operations.
An additional insight of the visit was the way that art can both display and shape the city’s Basque identity through public art pieces, such as Louise Bourgeois’ Maman, and investment in the architecture of public spaces like the Bilbao Metro stations.
Discovering Basque Country through the humanities
Participating students quickly chose the word “privileged” to describe how they felt about the trip. The group expressed gratitude at the chance to take the humanities out of the classroom. They also gained a new perspective on how the arts can influence societies. Seeing how the humanities can be a bridge between public and private interests helped them consider their own potential as they look forward to a career in the sector.
Study trips like this are just one way for IE University’s students to immerse themselves in their passion for the humanities. Learn more about how we bring the subject to life! Check out our Bachelor in Humanities or the Dual Degree in Humanities + Business Administration!
