On the left side

Rafael Moneo, University library in Deusto, Bilbao

Abstract

The old district located beyond the estuary, on the left bank of the Nervión is called Deusto. The University gets its name from this district.

The University of Deusto has always been the cradle of illustrious jurists as well as protagonist of the city’s cultural life – bearing witness to the solid civic commitment towards its city, Bilbao, in the sphere of the Basque metropolitan area.

Although from this side of the estuary the location appears to be favourable to the urban cut of its architecture, the difference between the block (large) and the site (smaller), has made the issue of urban settlement rather complex. If we add the invasive presence of the indistinct Guggenheim Museum to this, the uncertainty worrying the architect is understandable (an uncertainty destined to be resolved with a choice that is coherent with the geography and history of the place, yet with the Rafael Moneo’s poetic vicissitude).