One of The Basque Country’s most important educational institutions, the University of Deusto’s campus in Bilbao has been impressing visitors since 1886
Where is the University of Deusto?
Most eyes tend to focus on the Guggenheim Museum, but glance across the river and you’ll spot an imposing, classical building of limestone bricks propping up a cream white façade covered with arched windows. This is the University of Deusto.
You can reach the campus by walking down Campo Volantin alongside the river from Bilbao’s City Council. Follow the road all the way down past La Salve Bridge.
You can also walk down the other side of the river. Follow the river past the Guggenheim Museum until you get to the Pedro Arrupe footbridge. Make sure to stop and take a photo of the spectacular views as you cross the river.
Public Transport
It is easiest to get to the university on foot, but if you need to use public transport your best option is to take a BilboBus (the red ones). Lines 11 and 71 stop by the Pedro Arrupe footbridge, while the 01, 10, 13 and 18 stop at the Plaza de San Pío X roundabout, which is right next to the Faculty of Engineering.
University of Deusto history
The Society of Jesuits opened the university – then called Bilbao’s College of Higher Education – in 1886, a time of rapid economic and cultural expansion in Bilbao.
The main building, constructed in the classicist style, was designed by architect Francisco de Cubas. At the time it was the largest building in Bilbao.
In 1916, the institution inaugurated another building, ‘the Business College’, the first educational centre in Spain to offer specific courses about trade and commerce.
Although not officially open to visitors, the interior is equally spectacular, mixing old with new. There are rich mahogany auditoriums and open forecourts filled with palm trees. The main highlights are the grand central staircase, the Paraninfo Room, the Gothic chapel and the library.
Modern-day university
Over the years the university has continued to grow, more faculties have opened on its campus in Bilbao and it now has another campus San Sebastián/Donostia in addition to centres in Vitoria/Gasteiz and Madrid.
As the university is private, tuition fees can range from €5,500 to €15,000 depending on the course. The institution has seven main faculties and undergraduate degrees in 39 subjects.
According to Times Higher Education, the University of Deusto ranks among the top 20 in Spain and the top 1000 worldwide. Bilbao’s other top university is The University of The Basque Country, which has its main campus just outside the city in the town of Leioa.
Things to do in Deusto
Looking to see lesser-known parts of Bilbao? Take a venture into the neighbourhood of Deusto.
Deusto, for a long time a town of its own, has a unique character and its residents are famous in Bilbao for their independent spirit.
Take a look around Deusto’s many cafes and pintxo bars, and get a glimpse at a part of Bilbao often not seen by tourists.
