Royal Carpet and Tapestry Factory - Real Fábrica de Tapices

The Royal Tapestry Factory (also known as Real Fábrica de Tapices de Santa Bárbara) is a manufacturing plant. It is found in Madrid, and its foundation was laid in 1720. The credit for founding this fctory goes to Philip V. It was constructed after the loss of Spain’s Belgian territories, and tapestry workshops, due to the Peace of Utrecht. This project was a part of mercantilist initiatives, and had been initiated and completed during 18^th century in Madrid. The purpose as to provide luxurious goods to the citizens at reasonable costs. The present look of the factory is the result of 19^th century’s construction. It is still producing traditional tapestries and carpets. It was declared Bien de Interés Cultural in 2006. The famous painter Francisco Goya was commissioned for providing some marvelous and innovative designs for tapestries for hanging in the San Lorenzo de El Escorial and El Pardo palaces. The factory is also involved in the repairing of tapestries or rugs. The tourists can order a tapestry or carpet.

Practical info

The opening hours of this factory are Monday to Friday, from 10 am to 2 pm. The tourists are given special ‘tourist guides’ who explain the history of the factory and how it manufactures tapestries and rugs.