Palacio Lezama-Leguizamón

Palacio Lezama-Leguizamón is an early 1900s residence sitting on the Arriluce promontory with a central corner tower and curved arches forming its main architectural features. The building overlooks Abra Bay and the Bilbao estuary, with its exterior appearance preserved from its original design.

Built in 1902 by architect José María Basterra for businessman Luis Lezama Leguizamón, the residence received major design changes in 1919 from architect Manuel María Smith. These modifications updated its interior while maintaining the recognizable exterior form.

The structure shows the architectural style that wealthy families in this region favored during the early 1900s, with its prominent location and generous proportions. The facade and tower reflect the design preferred by the local upper class when industrial growth was reshaping the area.

The residence sits on a hillside with clear views toward the bay and is best appreciated from the surrounding pathways and streets. Today it is divided into three private apartments, so visiting means enjoying the exterior and surroundings rather than entering inside.

The residence once contained a private library that ranked among the largest on the Iberian Peninsula before fire destroyed it in 1933. This loss stands as a reminder of both the wealth and fragility of such cultural collections from that era.

Location: Getxo

Inception: 1902

Architects: José María de Basterra, Manuel María Smith

Part of: Area singularizada de Getxo

GPS coordinates: 43.33861,-3.00972

Latest update: December 9, 2025 18:47