Zumaia Honors 26 Residents Turning 90 in Joyful Ceremony

Tribute to those born during the Civil War and Franco's regime, recognized as living history.

Generic image: Elderly Basque people gathered in a community hall, holding small bouquets, warm and celebratory atmosphere.
IA

Generic image: Elderly Basque people gathered in a community hall, holding small bouquets, warm and celebratory atmosphere.

The Zumaia City Council and the retirees' association have held a special tribute for 26 residents celebrating their 90th birthdays, remembering the history of those born during wartime.

This year's ceremony, described as the most joyful yet, honored 26 residents of Zumaia who were born during the Spanish Civil War and the subsequent challenging years. They gathered at midday at the Zumaia City Council, alongside the local retirees' association, to receive a modest recognition.
Mayor Iñaki Ostolaza reminded them of the era they were born into, the Spanish Civil War that began in 1936, and the hardships of the Franco regime. He mentioned they grew up in "difficult times" and that many had to go into exile, while some came to Zumaia seeking opportunities. Therefore, the mayor emphasized the importance of using their opportunity to share that history with new generations, "so that what happened in your time is not repeated, so that xenophobia does not prevail again".
Despite the somber years of their birth, the tribute was notably joyful. The honorees arrived accompanied by a street parade from the newly formed music group Reuma, who played Ikusi mendizaleak as they entered one by one, sporting broad smiles.
A representative from the retirees' association also spoke during the event. Following tradition, the honorees received a bouquet of flowers and a small gift. The ceremony concluded with a musical performance and a traditional 'hamaiketako' (light lunch).