Every Tuesday and Thursday morning, Fernando Para, 93, arrives at the Círculo Católico workshop in Burgos with his son Aitor, 59. With a steady hand on his walker and a ready smile, Fernando shows that age is no barrier to curiosity or activity. The pair are inseparable in and out of the classroom, drawing attention for their energy and the easy laughter they bring to the group.
Fernando’s approach to retirement is anything but passive. A native of La Horra in the Ribera del Duero, he recalls making adobe bricks in his early years, before his family moved to Vitoria in 1954. He spent his working life in construction, helping build Burgos landmarks such as Plaza Roma after returning to the city in 1969. Now, decades later, he still seeks out new skills and challenges.
Swimming three times a week and attending restoration classes twice weekly, Fernando keeps a schedule that would challenge many half his age. Since October, he and Aitor have been regulars at the adult education workshop on Calle Concepción, where they work on hands-on projects with the guidance of Elena, an instructor they admire.
Aitor was the first to sign up for the restoration course, but quickly realized his father would make the ideal partner. Fernando’s background as a builder and his love of manual work made the class a natural fit. Together, they have restored a range of items, from century-old chairs to a magazine rack for Fernando’s granddaughter. Each project sparks new conversations and the occasional friendly debate.
One of their most memorable creations is a framed photograph inspired by ‘El bueno, el feo y el malo’. Aitor restored the frame and convinced his father to pose as Clint Eastwood, while he took the role of Lee Van Cleef. The playful portrait, a birthday gift for Fernando’s 93rd, appeared in the annual student exhibition and captured the spirit of their partnership.
For Aitor, seeing his father’s enthusiasm is a source of pride. “It means a lot to me, because many older people prefer to stay at home, but he wants to keep moving,” he says. The classes have become more than a hobby: they keep the pair active and connected with others.
Fernando credits his lead to a simple principle: consistency. “You have to keep at it. Even if you leave frustrated one day, you come back and try again,” he explains. That determination shapes his outlook on aging and learning.
Both father and son have already signed up for another year of classes. “We’re already on the list for next year,” Fernando says with a grin. “Let’s see if we make it,” he jokes, as Aitor looks on, confident they will.
Spain is seeing a growing movement toward active aging and lifelong learning. As the country’s population continues to age, Fernando and Aitor’s partnership shows the value of staying engaged in body and mind while maintaining social ties well into later life.
