The Basilica of Begona in Bilbao, dedicated to the patron saint of Biscay, the Virgin Begona, is regarded as one of the most important religious buildings of the city. This sanctuary has an interesting and complex history, full of unexpected twists, but only the most persistent and curious travellers will be able to learn about it: the basilica is hidden among the streets of Bilbao, away from touristy landmarks, and not everybody will be able to find it.

The construction of the temple was based on the design of then-famous architect Sancho Martinez de Arego and began in 1511. The initial plan provided for a single-nave church with a wooden roof. However, during the construction process, the basilica underwent many changes and was turned into a magnificent three-nave building decorated with an amazing ribbed vault and an impressive monumental interior.

The exterior of the temple is a mixture of three styles: Gothic, Renaissance, and Mannerism, a so-called architectural eclecticism that reflects all the centuries of the construction and reconstruction of the Basilica of Begona. The basilica underwent the final important renovation in the early 20th century. Ever since then, it has been decorated with a clock tower that houses 24 bells.

The visitors of the temple are met with a solemn facade, inspired by the Renaissance period. It curiously combines Gothic arches and stained-glass with baroque vignettes, balusters and towers. The rest of the building's exterior has a more serene appearance.

The main ornament and treasure of the interior decoration is a gilded neo-classic altar, in the centre of which there’s a figure of the Virgin Begona. Carved from tilia, the sculpture depicts the Saint holding Baby Jesus on her lap. There’s a rose in her right hand that symbolises mercy and martyrdom. Meanwhile, the right hand of Baby Jesus is raised in blessing and the left one is holding an open book. The age of the sculpture is about 700 years which means it’s at least 2 centuries older than the temple in which it’s located. To this day, it’s unclear who exactly created the sculpture and gave it to the Basilica of Begona in Bilbao.