Basilica de Nuestra Senora de Begona (Basilica of Begona), Bilbao

Basilica of Begona is dedicated to the Virgin of Begoña, the beloved patron saint of Biscay province-lovingly referred to as Amatxu, meaning “Mother” in Basque language. According to local legend, the Virgin appeared centuries ago on Mount Artagan, inspiring the construction of a shrine precisely at that sacred spot. The current Gothic-style church began rising in 1511 under Sancho Martínez de Arego architect, with a Renaissance‑inspired triumphal-arch entrance designed by Gil de Hontañón complementing the predominantly Gothic aesthetic.

With its commanding position on a hill, the basilica has long served as a beacon of faith and hope. Mariners returning to Bilbao would traditionally greet its steeple and begin to pray-giving the nearby neighborhood its name, La Salve, meaning "The Salutation" -and countless ships have been christened "Virgin of Begoña" in her honor. Its architecture reflects layers of history: richly Gothic interiors, Renaissance touches on the facade, and a 20th-century clock tower with 24 bells designed by José María Basterra added between 1902 and 1907.

Massive pilgrimages occur annually on 15 August , Assumption of Mary, and 11 October, Feast of Our Lady of Begoña, when thousands walk through the night to honor Amatxu, participating in midnight masses filled with reverence and tradition. Beyond its religious role, the building embodies centuries of Bilbao’s cultural evolution; it endured Napoleonic attacks, Carlist sieges, and restoration efforts, each chapter leaving its mark in stone and spirit.