The traditional basque Pottery Museum (Ollerías)
In the Ollerías neighbourhood, the Museo de Alfarería Vasca ("Basque Pottery Museum") is found in a farmhouse located next to the N-240 motorway.
On the banks of the reservoir and in an enclave full of great natural beauty, an old pottery shop originally constructed in 1711 (which was an old workshop of the Ortiz de Zarate family) was opened to the public in 1993.
The comprehensive renovation project for this old pottery shop was undertaken by the ceramicist Blanka Gómez de Segura. With the help of the Regional Council of Álava, the building was renovated in 1992, and today it is a centre visited by thousands of people every year.
Attached to the pottery shop, an old pottery furnace can be seen. It is square and has a height of nine metres. It has been included in the General Inventory of Basque Cultural Heritage with the classification of Monument since 1993.
On the first floor of the building, a collection of old Basque pottery is shown, courtesy of the Basque Autonomous Government. There are 380 pieces of popular ceramics used since the 15th century and onward, taking us back to the daily life of a pueblo of old.
One of the most popular activities, aside from the guided tour of the Museum, is witnessing the production of the pottery by local ceramic makers in the Centre?s workshop. All kinds of explanations regarding technique and work methods can be listened to here.
Visiting hours:
- Monday to Friday, 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
- Saturdays from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
- Closed Sundays and holidays
Groups can arrange visits by calling 945 45 51 45.