Tracing Beobide's Legacy

Born into a family deeply rooted in the arts, he was the youngest of four siblings. His older brother Jose Maria Beobide excelled as a composer and organist. Julio, meanwhile, pursued a career in sculpture, primarily creating realistic works featuring religious themes.

From a very young age, he began to explore the world of art, taking his first steps as a draftsman. His first encounter with sculpture occurred at the age of 13 in Barakaldo, Bizkaia, while he was studying at the Salesian school there, where he began to practice carving, with the help of artist Francisco Asorey.

Upon returning to Zumaia, Beobide befriended the renowned artist Ignacio Zuloaga. Although they didn't see eye to eye, they frequently engaged in discussions about art. According to Beobide’s family, the sculptor would often cross the river by boat to visit Zuloaga.

Beobide built the Kresala house on the promenade that now bears his name, and transformed it into his workshop and creative space. There, he unleashed his creativity and produced numerous works in an ideal setting by the river and near the sea.

Today, the museum dedicated to Beobide is located in the villa known as Kresala, which houses several works by the Zumaia artist on display, along with sketches offering insight into his creative process.

If you would like to visit and learn about Beobide’s work, you can do so by calling 659 26 87 98 to schedule an appointment. This museum is definitely worth exploring, for Kresala is not just home to an artist's work; to visit it is also to experience a living slice of Basque art up close. The accessibility of the collection and the intimate nature of the space allow visitors to contemplate the pieces at leisure and lose themselves in the world of their creator. And Zumaia’s unique atmosphere—combining the sea, heritage, and culture—makes for a complete and enriching experience. For anyone interested in art and the charm of local history, it is a must-visit.