Paideia: Bilbao’s great women (Bilbao, Spain)
On the occasion of the exhibition Huellas de Mujeres Geniales, which could be visited at the Luzarra Space in Deusto, Paideia interviewed the researchers on the three great women from Bilbao who are part of the exhibition: Rafaela Ibarra, Doña Casilda and Filomena Valdezate.
The three pioneers of social work have in common the time in which they lived, the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, and that they worked altruistically in favor of the people of Bilbao.
Rafaela Ibarra devoted herself both personally and financially to the most needy, especially to the women who suffered the most. Recognized as a saint, the Ángeles Custodios Foundation is worth mentioning, among her works.
Doña Casilda: She knew how to administer the fortune she managed in such a way that it would reach the most needy, and at the same time she contributed to the construction and maintenance of emblematic places such as the Arriaga Theater, the House of Mercy or the University of Deusto.
Filomena Valdezate: a midwife by profession, she is fondly remembered in the neighborhood of Rekalde because she helped many people from Bilbao come into the world. She was always available when summoned and known for her good spirits – families were reassured to know that Doña Filo was on her way!