Tabakalera Contemporary Art Centre

The Tabakalera Contemporary Art Centre in San Sebastian is a space where industrial history meets cultural innovation. Originally opened in 1913 as a tobacco factory, it now houses a large artistic community. Interestingly, despite its transformation, Tabakalera retains its impressive original structure, creating a contrast between past and present.

If you are planning to visit the centre of Tabakalera, in this article we will give you a guide so you know what you will find, its history and what you cannot miss if you go.

Architectonic style

The Tabakalera Contemporary Art Centre in San Sebastian is a perfect example of how history and modernity can coexist in a space dedicated to creativity and contemporary culture. As we have already said, the building was opened in 1913 as a tobacco factory, and today it still retains its impressive industrial structure, while housing a wide variety of modern facilities. This contrast between past and present is reflected in every corner of Tabakalera, making this centre a unique place where history meets artistic avant-garde.

Tabakalera is not only an exhibition space, but also an epicentre of cultural innovation. Here, artists from all over the world come together to create, inspire and be inspired. With its focus on the social, critical and creative use of technologies, the centre becomes a laboratory of ideas that fosters dialogue between various artistic disciplines. The architecture of the building, with its spacious courtyards and open structures, facilitates interaction and collaboration, creating an environment conducive to artistic exploration.

Location

Located at Plaza de las Cigarreras, 1, San Sebastián, 20012 Gipuzkoa, Tabakalera is in the Egia neighbourhood, a place close to several key points and accessible in San Sebastián. Its location just 10 minutes walk from the city centre and next to the Norte train station and the bus station makes it an easy-to-reach reference point. In addition, it is close to Cristina Enea Park, a green space for a walk before or after visiting the centre.

All your plants

The Tabakalera building is spread over several floors, each designed to maximize the use of space and offer a diverse experience to visitors.

• Ground floor : This is where you will find Plaza Néstor Basterretxea, Kutxa Kultur Artegunea, Elías Querejeta Zine Eskola, and TABA. This space is the main point of the building, with direct access from the street and an atmosphere that invites visitors to begin their tour. It also has services such as WC.
• First floor : This floor houses a variety of exhibition halls and event areas, including Halls 1 and 2, Kutxa Kultur Kluba, 2DEO, and Z Aretoa (Room Z). In addition, the Patio and WC and Information services are located here.
  Second floor: This floor houses the Medialab and Zinea 2. This floor is dedicated to creation and experimentation in the field of digital and audiovisual culture.
• Third floor : This floor houses the Artists’ Space (Artisten Gunea), where various cultural and creative professionals work on their projects. This environment encourages collaboration and the exchange of ideas between different disciplines.
• Fourth floor : This floor houses the Kutxa Kultur Plaza, the Ruiz Balerdi Classrooms (Ruiz Balerdi Ikasgelak), and several offices including Kutxa Kultur, Tabakalera, Zineuskadi, K Aretoa (K Room), Etxepare Basque Institute (Etxepare Euskal Institutua), Impact Hub Donostia, San Sebastián Festival (Donostia Zinemaldia) and the Basque Film Library (Euskadiko Filmategia).
• Fifth floor : The top floor of the building is used for special events and offers a panoramic view of San Sebastian from the Prisma. It also houses the LABe – Digital Gastronomy Lab (Restaurant), a perfect place to enjoy the city from a new perspective while participating in some cultural activity.

Exhibitions

Tabakalera is a hive of cultural and artistic activity, offering a varied programme that includes contemporary art exhibitions, cinema, workshops and events.

Temporary exhibitions

Temporary exhibitions are one of Tabakalera’s main attractions. Every year, the centre organises numerous exhibitions ranging from visual art and photography to multimedia installations and sound art. These exhibitions often address current and provocative themes, inviting visitors to reflect on various social and cultural issues.

Cinema and audiovisual

Tabakalera is also an important centre for cinema and audiovisuals. It houses cinemas that screen both classic and contemporary films, as well as hosting festivals and film cycles that attract film buffs from all over. The collaboration with the Basque Film Library and the San Sebastian International Film Festival reinforces its role as a cinematic epicentre.

Activities and workshops

In addition to exhibitions, Tabakalera organises a wide range of activities and workshops aimed at different audiences. From art and technology workshops for children and families to training programmes for cultural professionals, the centre strives to be an inclusive and educational space. It also offers artistic residencies that allow creators to develop their projects in an inspiring environment.

Interactive spaces

The centre also has interactive spaces such as Hirikilabs and Ubik. Hirikilabs is a laboratory that promotes the social and creative use of technology, offering workshops and activities that encourage collaboration and innovation. For its part, Ubik is not just a traditional library, but a creative space where users can learn, experiment and share knowledge.

Guided visit

For those who want to explore Tabakalera in depth, the centre offers guided tours that allow you to learn in detail about the history of the building, its transformations and the current exhibitions. These tours are an excellent way to make the most of the experience and understand the context and relevance of the works and activities presented.

San Sebastian has thousands of secrets and corners to discover, such as the Tabakalera Contemporary Art Centre, a must-see if you are in San Sebastian. If you want to discover more secrets that San Sebastian hides, renting a bike tour with Bike Rental is the best option. What are you waiting for to experience Donostia like a local!