The Museo Guggenheim Bilbao reopened at 12:30 PM on April 19, 2025, after a brief but intense security alert that caused the evacuation of employees and visitors earlier that morning. The situation arose when a suspicious package was discovered inside the museum, prompting immediate action from local authorities.
According to reports, the alarm was raised shortly after 10:00 AM, just before the museum was set to open to the public. Staff members alerted the Ertzaintza, the Basque police force, regarding the potential threat. By 10:15 AM, visitors who had already entered the museum were notified via loudspeaker to evacuate the premises as a safety precaution.
Félix Rodríguez, a cook at the museum's restaurant, shared his experience of the evacuation. “We weren’t told much, just that something suspicious had been found, and we had to leave the building about an hour after starting work,” he said. His account reflects the confusion and concern among those present in the museum at the time.
Once alerted, the Ertzaintza quickly established a security perimeter around the museum, effectively cordoning off the surrounding area to ensure public safety while bomb disposal experts examined the suspicious object. The police maintained the cordon until they could confirm that the package posed no threat.
Throughout the morning, hundreds of curious onlookers gathered outside the museum, waiting for updates and hoping to return to the iconic cultural landmark. The museum, known for its stunning architecture and significant art collections, was one of the main attractions in Bilbao, especially during the busy Semana Santa (Holy Week) period.
By 12:30 PM, after confirming that the package was harmless, the Ertzaintza lifted the security cordon, allowing visitors to enter the museum once again. The reopening came two and a half hours after the museum's official opening time, which was initially set for 10:00 AM.
As the doors reopened, the atmosphere shifted from tension to relief. Tourists who had been waiting outside were finally allowed to explore the exhibits, eager to experience the art and culture that the Guggenheim offers. The museum's prompt response to the potential threat demonstrated its commitment to visitor safety, a priority echoed by local authorities.
While the incident caused a temporary disruption, it also highlighted the effectiveness of emergency protocols in place at cultural institutions. The swift action taken by museum staff and the Ertzaintza ensured that the situation was handled efficiently, preventing any panic or harm to those involved.
In the aftermath of the event, officials noted that there had been no external threats reported against the museum, suggesting that the alarm was a false alarm. This conclusion was welcomed by both the museum staff and the public, who could breathe a sigh of relief knowing that the situation had been resolved without incident.
The Guggenheim Museum Bilbao is renowned not only for its impressive collection of contemporary art but also for its role as a symbol of the city’s cultural renaissance. Designed by architect Frank Gehry, the museum attracts millions of visitors each year, contributing significantly to the local economy and tourism.
As the museum resumes normal operations, it continues to be a focal point for art lovers and tourists alike. The events of April 19 serve as a reminder of the importance of vigilance and preparedness in ensuring public safety during high-profile events and gatherings.
In conclusion, the quick response by the Ertzaintza and museum personnel ensured that what could have been a serious situation was handled with professionalism and care. The Guggenheim Museum Bilbao remains a beacon of culture and creativity, ready to welcome visitors back to its halls.
