The La Encartada museum is located in a former woolen factory which operated from 1892 to 1992. It is a unique example of the industrial history of Bizkaia.
As well as showcasing the province’s under-represented wool industry – a driving force in introducing technical advances during the manufacturing era– the factory has remained almost unchanged since it was built. The surroundings, the workers homes, the water-powered drive system and the machinery combine to create an atmosphere that is highly evocative of the beginning of the industrial revolution.
Over the last decade, the factory has gradually been restored as a museum of the Basque textile industry.
The factory was originally constructed at the behest of an émigré from the town, Marcos Arena Bermejillo, who built the industrial complex that has remained largely unchanged to this day. Until it was closed in 1992, it took charge of all stages in the manufacturing process, buying raw wool, spinning it and then making berets (the principal product), blankets, cloths, scarves, socks, spools of yarn and ski masks.
Director: Begoña de Ibarra
Address: Bº. El Peñueco, nº 11. 48800. BALMASEDA
Telephone: 94 680 07 78
E-mail: laencartada@bizkaia.eus
Website: www.bizkaikoa.bizkaia.eus/laencartada
Winter (1 november-30 april): Tuesday- Sunday 10:00-14:00
Summer (1 may-31 october) and Easter Week: Tuesday-Saturday 10:00-14:00 / 16:00-19:00
Sunday and festive days: 10:00-14:00
The museum is closed on 1 January, 6 January and 25 December.
Recreational area / play park
Gift shop
Car-park
Rooms to hire for functions
General: €5, 50
Reduced rate: € 3, 50 (under26 years old, over 60 years old, disabled, unemployed, retreated and groups of more than 10 people).
Free admission: up to 12 years old, professionals of education, guides and authorized journalists, Museum´s Day (Friday), International Museum Day (18th May), local feast, NagusiTxartela and ICOM card.