Rialia was created in 2006 as a museum dedicated to industry, with the aim of preserving and commemorating the local industrial heritage centred in Bizkaia from the late 19th century to the late 20th century.
The museum’s primary objective today is to become a point of reference for the industrial legacy of the Left Bank, the estuary, and the town of Portugalete.
It serves as a medium to understand the Basque history of the last two centuries, focusing on the industrial phenomenon and its role in the region’s development.
All aspects of the museum are interconnected by a journey through the exhibition designed to offer a sensory and participatory experience, in which new technologies, accessibility, and interactivity play a prominent role.
The tour is available in three languages (Basque, Spanish, and English) and is organised by themes on four floors:
- 4th floor: Portugalete: Maritime landscape and the Iron Estuary.
- 3rd floor: Working life in the estuary and industry.
- 2nd floor: Iron industry, art collection, and documentation centre.
- 1st floor: Replica of AHV (Altos Hornos de Vizcaya), photography, literature, music, and games.
