Reales Fábricas de Bronce y Latón de Riópar, Historic industrial complex in Riópar, Spain.
The Reales Fábricas de Bronce y Latón de Riópar is a protected industrial complex with multiple buildings designed for bronze and brass manufacturing. The site displays the separation between administrative spaces, workshops, and storage areas that were typical of industrial production from this period.
The complex was founded in 1773 by Austrian engineer Juan Jorge Graubner and became Spain's first brass factory and the world's second after Goslar. The enterprise shaped the region's industrial development and remained a major employer in Riópar for generations.
The museum displays original machinery, tools, and manufactured items that demonstrate the evolution of metalworking techniques from the 18th to 20th centuries.
Visitors should note that parts of the site are outdoors and sturdy footwear is needed, especially on uneven paths between buildings. The best time to explore is in good weather, when you can fully see the outdoor areas and the industrial layout of the complex.
The factories operated continuously for more than 200 years until they closed in 1996, making them one of Spain's longest continuously operating production sites. Their metal products earned gold and silver medals at international exhibitions and were known throughout Europe.
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