The Old Quarter or The Seven Streets (Somera, Artecalle, Tendería, Belosticalle, Carnicería Vieja, Barrencalle and Barrencalle Barrena) is the oldest neighborhood and the original core of Bilbao, next to Bilbao la Vieja. It is declared a Historic-Artistic area, since it is home to the Plaza Nueva and some of the most emblematic buildings of the city, such as the Arriaga Theater, the Bidebarrieta Library, the Stock Market, the Atxuri station and the Cathedral of Santiago. This is a commercial area made up by the presence of five hundred establishments, including the Mercado de la Ribera, the largest covered supply market in Europe. Since 1979 this area is pedestrian.
At the other side of the Estuary, you can find Bilbao La Vieja, the bohemian area of Bilbao. In its streets there are plenty of stores, pubs, cafes and restaurants which combine author cuisine, style and art, which is also reflected in many street walls, since they are painted by international artists. The result is a lively and cosy neighbourhood, where you can enjoy having some beers and pintxos!
