The Basque fans met at the Bigg Market ahead of their side’s Champions League fixture against Newcastle United and marched through the city in a police cordon.
An estimated 3,000 fans made the trip from the region, with many of them taking part in the march.
After gathering at he Bigg Market for hours throughout Wednesday afternoon, the group of fans walked along Newgate Street and up Leazes Park Road to make their way to the away end, letting off pyrotechnics and singing Newcastle United songs as they went.
The two clubs have had a friendly link since Basque fans welcomed Newcastle Unitd supporters to their city ahead of a UEFA Cup fixture in 1994.
.jpeg?crop=4:3&trim=&width=800)
5. Further pyrotechnics were released as the fans made their way down Newgate Street
Jason Button/NationalWorld
.jpeg?crop=4:3&trim=&width=800)
6. Athletic Club fans march through Newcastle city centre
Jason Button/NationalWorld
7. Fans gather at the Bigg Market
Jason Button/NationalWorld
8. The group were kettled in by police
Jason Button/NationalWorld