Biscay, one of the Basque provinces of Spain, also called Bilbao, bounded N. by the bay of Biscay, E. by Guipuzcoa, S. by Alava and Burgos, and W. by Santander; area, 848 sq. m.; pop. in 1867, 183,098. It occupies the northern slopes of the E. portion of the Cantabrian mountains. The surface is mostly rugged and wooded, and the climate healthy; the soil, not naturally fertile, is by cultivation made productive. Fruit, Indian corn, and vegetables are raised abundantly, and of the finest quality. The country is principally divided into small farms, in the hands of the owners, who are frequently the descendants of ancient families. The houses are mostly of stone, and many of the old castas and towers have been converted into farm houses. The iron of Biscay is of the first excellence. The great mine of Somorrostro produces about 6,000 tons annually. The chief occupation of the Biscayans. besides agriculture, is fishing and the coasting trade. The Chief towns are Bilbao, the capital, Somorrostro. Bermeo, and Orozco.