| In the middle of the 19th century, the city
developed industries such as iron, steel, shipbuilding, ship-owning
companies, chemical products, banking and electricity, followed later by
paper, cement and glass. In the 20th century it added the machine tool,
automotive components and aeronautical industries. More recently the city
has created important technological centres.
Bilbao has undergone an important transformation by developing an urban
model combining new industries, services and technologies with art and
culture. The most recent example is the Guggenheim Museum.
The Bilbao-Rioja geographic area displays first-class economic
dynamism. It is considered a top tourist destination because of the wide
range of its cultural sites, its world-famous cuisine and the excellent
Rioja wines.
The first written words in Castilian Spanish were in praise of Rioja
wines. The magical Rioja landscape seems completely dedicated to the
creation of some of the finest wines in the world.
The climate, soil and geographical features of the region form an ideal
environment, so it's not surprising that Rioja has produced wine since
early Roman times.
Since the middle of the 19th century Rioja has realised its true
potential by producing outstanding red wines. The classic blend of soft,
mellow vanilla and rich, deep fruit are a tribute to the winemaker's skill
when ageing wine in oak casks. |
