Santurtzi Itsas Museoa

Santurtzi Itsas Museoa

The Maritime Museum in Santurce

Located in the most emblematic building of Santurtzi’s maritime history, the Fishermen’s Guild, the Santurtzi Itsas Museoa Interpretation Center aims to showcase the deep connection between Santurtzi and the sea in all its aspects—professional, cultural, recreational, and social—while highlighting that much of the maritime heritage resides in its people.

Through various audiovisual displays, visitors can explore this bond from 1600 to the present day. The museum reveals the crucial role of “lemanes” (pilots) in helping ships navigate the feared sandbar, which once made entry and exit from the Bilbao Estuary extremely difficult, as well as the solution to this serious navigation problem.

The exhibition also delves into the fascinating world of corsairs and pirates, the exploits of a famous 16th-century smuggler from Santurtzi, the origins of rowing regattas, and the long-standing tradition of traineras (fishing boats) in the town.

Of course, special recognition is given to one of Santurtzi’s most iconic figures: the sardine sellers. These sharp-witted women were always on alert for the arrival of fishing boats and walked along the estuary selling their fresh catch—sometimes reaching distant towns such as Plentzia and Balmaseda.

Santurtzi Itsas Museoa offers a variety of activities and experiences, including theatrical guided tours, which conclude with a traditional-style fish auction.

The museum is part of the Basque Coast Museum Network and the European Route of Industrial Tourism (www.erih.net).

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