Autumn plans in Debabarrena: our Museums

If you already know Debabarrena, it is very likely that you have heard about our vast natural heritage, from the Geopark of the Basque Coast, to our network of hiking trails. But have you explored our cultural offer? We have plans to suit all tastes: historical and cultural heritage, such as churches, sculptures, stately homes; agriculture and livestock fairs, and local crafts; gastronomic events; theater days; and much more. But today we want to tell you about the museums of Debabarrena.

Our region has a long industrial tradition. It has been the economic engine of Debabarrena and Euskadi for more than 500 years, and has left a deep mark, both in the architectural heritage of our towns, as well as in the culture and way of life of our population. To help you explore this part of our history and our identity, in Debabarrena you will find two museums on this topic.

The first, the Arms Industry Museum, located in Eibar, not only does it explore the history of the industry in Debabarrena. It also dedicates a space to explain how the industry transformed Eibar, making it the centre of state manufacturing, where products such as Lambretta motorcycles, Orbea bicycles, and Alfa sewing machines were made, to name a few. And of course we cannot forget the area that speaks of weapons production in our region, where you can see weapons from many eras, and even a reproduction of a traditional gunsmith workshop. To explore in depth the extensive history of the industry in Eibar and Debabarrena, you can sign up for the free guided tours that take place once a month (in Basque or Spanish).

Of course, if we talk about industrial heritage, we have to mention the Machine Tool Museum of Elgoibar. This curious museum reveals the important role of the machine tool in the industrial development of Debabarrena, and you can also see several machines of the early twentieth century in motion. A true jewel of the industrial heritage of our region.

In Eibar we can also suggest another plan that combines historical heritage with nature. At the top of Mount Arrate is the Sanctuary of the Virgin of the same name, a recreation area, and several restaurants, making this place an ideal starting or ending point for numerous mountain trails. Here you can also find the Interpretation Centre of the Civil War Front. In this space you will find out more about the impact of the conflict in Eibar and its surroundings, during the seven months the front was located near the city.

If we go to the coast, we will find interpretation centres focused on different elements of the UNESCO Geopark of the Basque Coast. On the one hand, in Mutriku we have the Nautilus Geological Interpretation Centre, where you can see a magnificent collection of fossils found on the cliffs of Gepark. In addition, the Geopark has two interpretive spaces of the landscape, located in the Tourist Office of Deba, and at the hostel of Lastur, where you can learn more about the geological formations of the Geopark.

As you can see, we have numerous alternatives to discover our heritage, both historical and natural. These museums can be a great alternative plan for those rainy days in Debabarrena, or simply if you fancy a different plan. Come discover them!