Fàbrica de Tabacs, Industrial heritage complex in Tarragona, Spain

Fàbrica de Tabacs is an industrial complex in Tarragona with multiple buildings arranged around a central square, featuring classical architectural details like arcades and decorated facades. The site contains various sections, some now converted to office and rehearsal spaces for contemporary use.

The tobacco factory's land was bought in 1922 by an engineering team led by Francesc Bastos i Ansart, and the first stone was laid in 1923 under Josep Tulla Planellas. Excavation revealed a Roman-Christian necropolis in the northwest sector, delaying work. In 1928 finance minister José Calvo Sotelo ordered a museum built on the site, designed by Llorenç Rosell and mossèn Serra i Vilaró. A 1923 Francolí flood further delayed production until 1932.

The former industrial site now serves as a venue for art exhibitions and cultural events that draw the local community. Visitors can see how the restored spaces host performances and creative activities throughout the year.

The complex occupies a 68,000 m² site; the main entrance on the river-facing facade is framed by paired pilasters and three arches. Parts of the buildings are used by municipal services, while module 6 opened as a cultural space in November 2022. Check which areas are accessible before visiting, as not all sections are open.

The Roman-Christian necropolis found during excavation in 1923 led the finance minister José Calvo Sotelo to order a museum built on the site in 1928, with mossèn Serra i Vilaró as its first director.