Last Friday, dozens of people boarded the historic microbus that has returned to circulate through the streets of Bilbao. This vehicle, put into service in the 1960s, featured unique characteristics of the era, such as leather seats and the requirement for all passengers to be seated. Furthermore, stops were made 'on demand', as it is known today.
“"It's the association's 20th anniversary, and we thought it was a good idea to launch it for free so people could enjoy it. It brings back many memories for those who knew it, but it also attracts a lot of attention from tourists and other Bilbao residents. It has been a beautiful experience."
The HiruAuzo Merchants Association, which brings together businesses from Elorrieta, San Ignacio, and Ibarrekolanda neighborhoods, organized this initiative. A member of the association noted that this experience has brought back many memories for Bilbao residents and, at the same time, has attracted the attention of tourists and other city dwellers.
The vehicle, which is 53 years old, still retains its leather seats and a plate on the front from the Bilbao Railway Friends Association indicating the model. The person responsible for its maintenance highlighted that it is very well preserved and is an icon of Bilbao. Moreover, they mentioned that when it circulates through Bilbao, people take many photographs of it.
“"This is unique! It's so exciting to remember those times again. It was very common to tell the driver: 'Hey, stop here!'"
Users of the vehicle have shared anecdotes from the past, such as the possibility of smoking inside the microbus, which testifies to the customs of the time. This experience has revived a past mode of transport, recalling a part of the city's history.
