25 - Espacio Mercancías (Freight Area)

This area devoted to freight transport is located behind the central building of the Rotonda (Roundhouse). Created between 2016 and 2017, it is made up of a 40-metre-long track that begins with a buffer stop from the former MZA company and ends at a turntable from the Vilanova Station (which have been recovered and restored in recent years). It features three highly representative vehicles: a “J” wagon, an “XX” open wagon and a “TT3” hopper wagon. The “XX” wagon and the hopper have also been restored for displaying.

On the other hand, three freight containers have been restored to make up a mini Container Terminal, an area where the Museum’s Association of Volunteers has a restoration and repair workshop. Located inside is a small diesel train or “dresina” popularly known as “Huevo” (Egg), which was used in the mid-20th century to transport railwaymen working on the tracks. This type of small diesel train was custom-made in railway workshops.

The interior of the “J” wagon is a screening room where you can find out more about the history of this type of transport, which was essential in the origin of the railway and in the expansion of the industrial revolution.

The creation of the Espacio Mercancías was one of the first consequences of the financing provided by the Ministry of Public Works’ 1.5% cultural fund, requiring the use of two cranes to bring the different elements here. The vehicles and containers house some of the elements that had to be removed from the Gran Nave building during the Museum’s refurbishment and extension work.