More than a century of history
Legatees
In the mid-19th century, brothers Pedro and Domingo de Aguirre Basagoiti set out from the family farmhouse in Berango (Vizcaya, Basque Country) bound for Mexico. What began as a business venture in distant lands would, over time, become a lasting legacy that remains vibrant over two centuries later.
Endowed with a strong entrepreneurial spirit, the Aguirre brothers not only achieved economic success but also demonstrated a deep commitment to their homeland. Through their wills, they allocated a substantial portion of their estate to improving the lives of the people of Vizcaya.
To ensure that their wishes were faithfully carried out, they entrusted their nephew, Pedro de Icaza y Aguirre, with the responsibility of administering their legacy, which would give rise to the three Aguirre foundations.fundaciones Aguirre.
The origins of the three foundations
In accordance with his uncles’ wishes, Pedro de Icaza y Aguirre spearheaded the creation of three foundations dedicated to serving the people of Vizcaya and looking to the future. Each of the foundations had a specific purpose.
Aguirre Viscayan Foundation (1916)
Established to advance science, industry, the humanities and the arts in Vizcaya. The foundation supports initiatives aimed at promoting education and furthering the economic and cultural progress of Vizcayan society. Its first major achievement was setting up the Deusto Business School, the first institution in Spain to offer university-level studies in Economics and Business Management, under the academic direction of the Society of Jesus.
Aguirre Charitable Foundation (1920)
Established to provide spiritual and material support to Vizcaya’s most vulnerable residents. It was responsible for setting up the San Juan de Dios hospital and children’s home in Santurce. The foundation’s commitment to supporting and caring for those most in need is represented by the figure of the Vizcaíno Doliente (the Suffering Man of Vizcaya), featured in its founding symbolism.
Aguirre Agricultural Foundation (1921)
Established to develop and improve agricultural practices in Vizcaya. The foundation promoted training, knowledge transfer and the adoption of new arable and livestock farming techniques. Its aim was to contribute to the progress and prosperity of rural areas in Vizcaya, helping farms to modernise and improve their productivity by incorporating innovations that had proven their worth elsewhere.
More than a century later, the Aguirre Viscayan Foundation and the Aguirre Charitable Foundation continue to serve society, adapting to changing times without compromising their founding principles. True to the spirit of their founders, both institutions have successfully evolved to meet the needs of each era, keeping alive a legacy of commitment to wellbeing, education and progress in the province of Vizcaya.
The work begun by the Aguirre Agricultural Foundation now forms an integral part of the Aguirre Viscayan Foundation’s activities, ensuring the continuity of its founders’ legacy and vision.
The foundation’s first major project: La Comercial
In October 1916, the Aguirre Viscayan Foundation inaugurated its most iconic project: the Deusto Business School, known locally as La Comercial.
Over the years, the Deusto Business School (DBS) – has maintained a firm commitment to academic excellence. It has evolved in line with social and economic changes, expanding its range of courses and adapting to the demands of a global environment.
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