Unique museum, conceived as a total work of art where art and nature merge in one place in Hernani
"One day, I dreamed of a utopia: to find a space where my sculptures could rest and where people could walk between them as if in a forest". These words by the sculptor Eduardo Chillida (1924-2002) aptly illustrate the project for this unique museum, conceived as a total work of art, where art and nature merge in one and the same place. A "utopia" born in the early 1980s with the discovery of the caserío Zabalaga, an abandoned 16th-century farmhouse that Chillida set about restoring with the help of architect Joaquín Montero. He gradually acquired additional plots of land - up to the present 11 hectares - to exhibit his works. Today, some forty monumental sculptures line the park; you can touch them, walk around them or even through them.
Inside the caserío, more delicate pieces in wood or alabaster are displayed under a marvellous framework. Figurative sculptures created during his first visit to Paris are also on display. Archive footage of the creation of the Wind Comb, probably Chillida's most famous work, located on the Concha de San Sebastián, is also on display in the Salle Pilar. Inaugurated in 2000, two years before the sculptor's death, the site had to close in 2011 for economic reasons. It finally reopened in 2019 with the help of the Hauser & Wirth gallery. Take advantage of your visit to have lunch at the excellent Lurra Cafe!
Did you know? This review was written by our professional authors.
Further information
Opening time and information on MUSEO CHILLIDA-LEKU
Open from 10am to 6pm. Closed Tuesday and Wednesday. Admission €14.
Message from Management
Located in Hernani, this open-air museum was designed to celebrate the genius of Basque sculptor Eduardo Chillida. In this unique setting, Chillida's monumental steel and granite sculptures interact with a natural landscape of beech, oak and magnolia trees. A guided tour allows you to delve into the artist's world and learn more about his works and philosophy. The museum also features permanent exhibitions devoted to the artist's signature pieces and his artistic evolution. It also hosts temporary exhibitions on a variety of themes. Cultural events such as concerts and lectures enrich the visitor's experience throughout the year. Café Lurra offers a warm and inviting place to enjoy drinks and snacks, while taking in the view of the garden. It features local products in a friendly atmosphere, ideal for relaxing with family and friends. There's also an on-site boutique. It offers reproductions of works, books, decorative objects and souvenirs inspired by the world of Chillida, carefully selected to reflect the spirit of the museum.
A visit that will delight art and nature lovers alike.
Book the Best Activities with Get Your Guide
Members' reviews on MUSEO CHILLIDA-LEKU
The ratings and reviews below reflect the subjective opinions of members and not the opinion of The Little Witty.
En cas de pluie, prévoir des chaussures adaptées car il faut marcher sur l'herbe pour s'approcher et apprécier les sculptures
La maison Chilida a été minutieusement rénovée et sert de lieu d'exposition supplémentaire dans le parc.
Ceux qui recherchent un peu de calme en plus de l'animation de la ville apprécieront cet endroit. Un bus y conduit directement depuis le centre-ville, ce qui évite d'avoir recours à la voiture.
C'est tout simplement beau et bienfaisant.