About Museu del Suro
Historically, cork has been of great importance not only for the Costa Brava, but also for the whole of Catalonia in general. So much so that in Palafrugell, in 1972, it was decided to open a museum dedicated to this type of plant tissue. We refer to the Suro Museum.
The facilities chosen to shape this cultural institution were those of Can Mario. It is a factory that used to work with cork, which today accommodates not only this museum space, but also another one. Focusing on the Museu del Suro, it encompasses several different buildings: Cal Ganxó, industrial warehouses and a structure that was recently built.
It is enough to take a look at the outside of this museum to realize how different this recent work is compared to the others, which do have a certain age.
Continuing with the exterior, what attracts the most attention is undoubtedly the main façade. In 1907, the architect General Guitart was in charge of decorating it, putting into practice his knowledge of modernism that led him to shape a unique piece that today is still quite well preserved.
Collection
Speaking of the state of conservation, the state of conservation of all the elements that make up the collection of the Museu del Suro is certainly very good. For example, the barrin machine does not show the slightest sign of oxidation.
Through the collection of this museum you can find out how cork evolved throughout Spain, serving not only for bottling. At the time, it was also used to give shape to some literary works. In fact, today the one considered to be the first book made of cork is perfectly preserved: Don Quixote.
The list of items that are part of the large collection of this museum does not end here. To those already mentioned, we must add other very interesting ones such as the emery machine and a bicycle wheel made of cork.
Salas
Two of the warehouses of the Museu del Suro are intended to be visited by those with an interest in the exciting world of cork, encompassing several rooms that are quite different from each other.
The first of these is that of the permanent exhibition. It is the largest of all, comprising a total that far exceeds one thousand square meters. It is for this reason that those responsible for the museum space were forced to distribute it along two floors of the building.
On the other hand, the room called Manufacturas is much smaller, since it covers just under two hundred and fifty square meters. In this case, you have to go to the ground floor to see the various elements shown in this temporary exhibition.
Among those two ships that we have mentioned before is the Geminus Space, whose capacity includes a maximum that narrowly exceeds thirty visitors. All of them can participate in very pleasant workshops that both adults and young children tend to like a lot, as evidenced by the good opinions that are published on the Internet.
As if that weren't enough, the Museu del Suro offers visitors an auditorium. Just over a hundred visitors can enjoy several screenings of audiovisual material without having to stand, since the room is equipped with chairs, which is to be appreciated. This space is known as Miquel, Vincke & Meyer.
Finally, the module intended for reception is another important room of the Museu del Suro. A quick look at it shows how new this construction is, which was completed in 2011. Visitors are warmly welcomed in this space, which also operates as a store. Therefore, those who wish to do so can end the visit to the museum with the odd souvenir.
Rates
The individual ticket costs 3€, while for the reduced ticket you have to pay 1.5€, and retirees and students can take advantage of this discount.
On the other hand, children under twelve years of age and disabled persons, as well as the unemployed, have free access to the museum. Entering the Museu del Suro at zero cost is also possible for other visitors on the last Saturday of each month.
Comment by Bravissima about Museu del Suro:
The Cork Museum, located at Carrer de Begur, 15, CP 17200 in Palafrugell, is a fascinating place that honors the history of cork, an essential material in the Costa Brava and Catalonia. Inaugurated in 1972 in the former Can Mario factory, this museum not only preserves the history of the cork industry but also offers an educational experience through its varied spaces and exhibitions.
Visitors highlight the quality of the facilities and the excellent state of preservation of the collection, which includes historic machines and unique objects related to the transformation of cork. Among the most interesting items is 'Don Quixote', the first book made of cork, and other artifacts that illustrate the evolution of this material over time.
The museum features:
- A permanent exhibition covering over a thousand square meters across two floors.
- A manufacturing gallery for temporary exhibitions.
- The Geminus Space for interactive workshops, highly valued by both adults and children.
- An auditorium with audiovisual projections.
- An reception area that also serves as a souvenir shop.
Entrance is very accessible, with prices of 3€ for adults and reduced rates available. Free entry is offered for children under 12 years old and there are special days for free access.
The majority of visitors praise the friendliness of the staff, the simplicity of the space, and the importance of cork in the region's history. While there are opinions suggesting a somewhat chaotic organization of the museum and a lack of detailed information, the overall consensus is that the Cork Museum is a must-visit destination in Palafrugell, ideal for discovering the cultural and historical richness of the cork industry.
Opening hours
- Monday: Cerrado
- Tuesday: 10:00–13:00, 16:00–19:00
- Wednesday: 10:00–13:00, 16:00–19:00
- Thursday: 10:00–13:00, 16:00–19:00
- Friday: 10:00–13:00, 16:00–19:00
- Saturday: 10:00–14:00, 17:00–20:00
- Sunday: 10:00–14:00
Museu del Suro: Reviews
Positive experience:
It is very good, it is very interesting to see everything related to cork, and what can be done with it, a pity that all the factories and fields have burned down
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Fantastic experience:
Interesting visual document, report on the industry of Spain in the twentieth century
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Fantastic experience:
Culture is essential in any town
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Fantastic experience:
Impressive historical journey of this craft, which became a major export industry in Catalonia in the twentieth century.
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Fantastic experience: Great, we have learned a lot.
Fantastic experience: Very interesting, we liked it a lot
Fantastic experience:
A very beautiful story over time.
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Fantastic experience:
So it is a pleasure to go to any museum, like it more or less. The staff is to take home ... Very friendly, helpful and charming. An example ... As for the museum, for me, a little bit of information about the operation of the machinery and somewhat chaotic in its arrangement ... But for tastes, the colors ...
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Fantastic experience:
Very interesting . I didn't know what you do with a cork
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Fantastic experience: A very interesting visit
Fantastic experience:
At the end of the installation very pleasant welcome trip interesting film
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Fantastic experience:
This place is more than a museum, it is a story of the industrial history of cork treatment. Highly recommended.
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Fantastic experience:
A walk through a piece of history, very beautiful.
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Fantastic experience:
A great experience to get to know a traditional way of life
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Fantastic experience: Unique in Catalonia
Fantastic experience:
Cultural space in the center of Palafrugell
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Positive experience:
It is currently being renewed, so only a documentary about 30' on the cork industry can be seen in Palafrugell. Very interesting!
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Fantastic experience:
Really interesting. Nice museum. Free entry. You can also climb to the top of the tower. (paying) from where we have a beautiful view.
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Fantastic experience: Cork + Catalonia = fantastic
Fantastic experience:
Well presented and built museum. Beautiful retrospective on a profession and its evolution over a century. To visit absolutely.
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Fantastic experience: Very interesting and free.
Fantastic experience:
A nice time
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Fantastic experience:
Fantastic, we liked it a lot, go with family and see the history and production, it is very interesting, there is a projection explaining the history
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Positive experience:
Very interesting. The guided tour is a must, but guides must improve knowledge and narrative.
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Fantastic experience:
A piece of Palafrugell's history is undoubtedly the cork and the factory that for years has given work but also education (the first school was born precisely for the factory workers) and well-being. One of the buildings of the old factory is now the cork museum which, in addition to telling the story of Palafrugell, also explains the versatility of this material which is not just 'corks'. During the year the museum organizes workshops for the little ones in which cork is the protagonist of various creations.
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Fantastic experience:
The museum is very good. It is an old cork factory in Palafrugell. It has an exhibition of the machinery used at that time and many photographs. There are also two audiovisual rooms. There are hydroalcoholic gel and gloves in various places in the museum. It has a public toilet. And the entrance is free at least now in July which is when I have gone. ;)
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Positive experience:
Interesting route. It's already my second time and the transformation of the place since the first visit is incredible. Recommended for a tour with children.
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Fantastic experience:
Visit to learn about the history of cork in Catalonia.
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Fantastic experience:
Highly recommended visit, the museum staff very attentive and friendly.
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Fantastic experience:
Apart from the museum there is a very interesting audiovisual
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Fantastic experience: It has gripped us a lot. Everything is explained. Interesting. Friendly and attentive people
Fantastic experience:
The world of cork in Palafrugell is very relevant to understand the history of the village and beyond.
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Fantastic experience:
I went there to see the exhibition "PINZELLADES" dedicated to the painter Josep Puig Clausell, who died a couple of years ago. Deserved tribute from the town of Palafrugell to a true artist. In addition to being a painter and illustrator, he was linked to theater as a stage designer and actor.
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Fantastic experience:
Very interesting. The audiovisual explains very well the evolution of the cork industry in Palafrugell. The exhibition is very understandable. Worth it!
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Fantastic experience:
I liked it, everything is very well cared for, a good place to visit with the children and learn about the wealth that the cork industry has contributed throughout the country.
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Fantastic experience:
Very illustrative and curious. The very interesting audiovisual
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Fantastic experience:
Lovely history museum of the local cork factory.
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Fantastic experience: Unfortunately they went but it was closed. We'll be coming back
Fantastic experience:
Very interesting and excellent staff.
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Fantastic experience:
A good example of how corks were made in Catalonia
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Fantastic experience:
A great photography exhibition!
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Fantastic experience:
The visit was amazing! Super interesting
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Fantastic experience:
Interesting museum with my details that we do not know about cork and its uses and history
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Fantastic experience: Top
Fantastic experience:
Awesome and informative, the welcome is very nice
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Fantastic experience: The Cork Museum is well-organised and the staff is very friendly. Children under 12 years have free entrance. All information is translated into French and English. There you will be able to see a lot of machines and objects related to the cork industry. Museum occupies 2 storey building and is not far from free parking. There is also paid parking infront of the museum.
Fantastic experience:
It is very worth visiting. It is very well used all the space and things very well placed.
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Fantastic experience: Surprisingly interesting. Recommended
Fantastic experience:
A very museum of ours. The simplicity and greatness of cork explained in a space with good facilities.
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Fantastic experience:
Super museum !! Very interesting to know the evolution of a region and a village in particular! I recommend !
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Fantastic experience: Very interesting, a great story for a great town.
Fantastic experience:
Great exhibition on the history of the cork industry in Palafrugell, very pedagogical and highly recommended to go with children.
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Fantastic experience:
Like its name, Cork Museum, it is a place that explains the whole life of the cork oak, treats the lids, and all the information on the handling until the corks and other utensils
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Fantastic experience: Fantastic Well worth a couple of hours. Who knew cork could be so interesting and relevant now for climate concerns. Great story of development and innovation through challenging era by the original company. Ask at reception for English subtitles on the video and watch this first. All other information also provided in English, French etc
Fantastic experience:
Very interesting, they pass a documentary with the story from the beginning of this company, it is admirable the work that the employees did x the working conditions, which are not the current ones. Congratulations
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Fantastic experience:
A very interesting museum.The audiovisual and the explanations in the posters show the importance of this material and the richness that I represent for Palafrugell
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Fantastic experience:
A museum with a long history very well explained to not forget the past of that wonderful town.
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Fantastic experience:
A good place to see what the ancestors had to work to be us better, we have to visit it
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Fantastic experience:
Nice museum to visit
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Fantastic experience: A piece of history that belongs to here only. That dominated the world of commerce in an specific field.
Fantastic experience:
Interesting to wear, children like
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Fantastic experience:
Culture of Palafrugell ... Interesting !!
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Fantastic experience:
The audiovisuals help to understand the whole process of preparing the cork, the different uses they gave it and what the cork factory meant for the people. At the reception they told me that they will reform the entire museum.
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Fantastic experience:
Highly recommended for all ages, a very interesting interactive zone, if you do not miss out on the audiovisual video, industrial style .
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Fantastic experience:
Great museum
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Fantastic experience:
A unique museum!
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Fantastic experience:
The museum is small, but the explanations on the use of cork are very clear and detailed and are accompanied by interesting period photographs. Don't miss the video.
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Fantastic experience: Very good visit
Fantastic experience: Fascinating museum that gives you great insights into the area around you. I had know idea of the incredible industry that Cork provided to this town. The museum is well thought out and provides information in multiple languages.
Fantastic experience:
Very interesting to discover the history of this industry that was so important for the economic development of the area. Also for children.
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Fantastic experience: Amazing, quirky, stylish museum both educational and eye candy. Loved all expositions and the design. We spent almost two hours there with our children(10, 12, 1.5 years)
Fantastic experience:
Very interesting, too bad I couldn't stick any temporary exhibits. It started the next day
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Fantastic experience:
Highly recommended to learn what cork is and how it is handled, as well as the history of its use
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Fantastic experience:
Sorry the review will be in French, I'm here with my 9 year old daughter and she loved it. Well it lacks the French translations really even if we can understand the Spanish .... there is even a play area for children. And the liege puts in is really cheap.
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Fantastic experience:
A must visit if you pass by Palafrugell. The guided tour offers in detail the complete process of obtaining, treatment and applications of cork. Magnificent documentary on the subject, and in particular on the historical evolution of Palafrugell, linked to the cork industry.
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Fantastic experience: If you visit Palafrugell you have to visit the cork museum
Fantastic experience:
Very good place to build on the Duro in Catalonia
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Fantastic experience: Fantastic
Fantastic experience:
Museum in Palafrugell, guided visits and a wide variety of tools and machines, fantastic.
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Fantastic experience:
Excellent experience Learn a little more about the history of the factory I recommend it
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Fantastic experience:
The work of the guide was very good and the museum is well worth it.
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Fantastic experience:
very rewarding for adults and children of all ages
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Fantastic experience:
A must if you want to live and know about the history of cork.
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Fantastic experience:
A treasure in Palafrugell. VILACASAS Foundation. Can Mario Museum. It is well worth a visit.
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Fantastic experience:
Very good level exhibitions. It's a pleasure to visit.
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Fantastic experience:
Museum in the Center of the town of Palafrugell. With very interesting permanent exhibition of the old factory. The temporary exhibitions are fabulous. They do many interesting activities for children.
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Fantastic experience:
I am very interested in the grant industry that avia set icom an entire town had worked lived of the suru I really like
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Fantastic experience:
History and Culture of Cork in Catalonia
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Fantastic experience:
Great experience, very didactic.
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Fantastic experience:
Very interesting and excellent service!
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Fantastic experience: It's very good! You can even go there with the kids and they do a lot of workshops!
Fantastic experience:
Although not the definitive exhibition it meets what one expects to find, see the cork process, its importance in the region and internationally, and its outcome.
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Fantastic experience:
Nice
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Fantastic experience:
I loved the visit. Highly recommended if you visit Palafugell
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Fantastic experience:
Interesting museum. The visit is recommended.
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Fantastic experience:
For me the best museum 100% recommended for the whole family come to visit it do not miss it
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Fantastic experience: It has a unique architecture, and the explanations are well detailed.
Fantastic experience:
A must-see place in Palafrugell! A modern museum about the history of one of the most important industries in the region - cork production.
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Fantastic experience:
It is a museum where the "industrial history of Palafrugell " is collected
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Fantastic experience:
Excellent museum with good explanations and very old cork machines.
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Fantastic experience: Very nice cork museum in the old factory.
Fantastic experience:
Great to know the cork life of the region
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Fantastic experience:
Museum very interesting for the little current theme. Ideal store to buy different souvenirs and gifts. Efficient staff
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