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Art centre · Santander, Cantábria
Centro Botín
Centro de arte da Fundação Botín, designed by Renzo Piano and Luis Vidal and opened in 2017, suspended over the bay next to the jardines de Pereda, with viewpoints over the water.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Centro Botín
The Centro Botín is an art centre of the Fundação Botín, founded in 1964 in Santander. The building was designed by the Italian architect Renzo Piano, with the Spanish architect Luis Vidal, and opened on 23 June 2017 on the bayfront, next to the jardines de Pereda and close to the old town.
There are two volumes suspended on pillars, projecting over the water and connected by external walkways and stairs. The façades are covered by thousands of ceramic tiles that catch the bay light and change colour during the day. Under the volumes the space is open and extends the gardens down to the sea.
Inside, the galleries host temporary exhibitions of modern and contemporary art and displays from the foundation’s collection, with works by Spanish and international artists. There is also an auditorium and activities linked to art, emotion and creativity.
The walkways and external terraces act as viewpoints over the bay and can be visited freely. Beside it, the Paseo de Pereda, with buildings from the 18th to the 20th centuries, runs along the waterfront to Puertochico.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
1 to 2 hours, including the exhibitions.
Best time
Late afternoon, when the bay light hits the ceramic façade. The terraces are worth a visit at any time.
How to get there
It is on the Muelle de Albareda, between the jardines de Pereda and the bay, about a 5-minute walk from the cathedral.
Tip
Go up the external walkways even if you don't enter the exhibitions: the view of the bay and Paseo de Pereda is the best in the centre.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Centro Botín
Who designed the Centro Botín?
The Italian architect Renzo Piano, with Luis Vidal. The center opened in 2017.
What can you see at the Centro Botín?
Temporary exhibitions of modern and contemporary art and displays from the Botín Foundation collection.
Can you access the terraces without entering the exhibitions?
Yes, the walkways and external terraces can be visited freely.