Nestled in the picturesque town of Agoncillo, La Rioja, Museo Würth La Rioja is a hidden gem that art enthusiasts and culture seekers should not miss. This contemporary art museum, inaugurated on September 7, 2007, is the Spanish headquarters of the renowned Würth Collection. With its own unique artistic background, the museum showcases the works of five major international artists: Miquel Barcelo, Richard Deacon, Miquel Navarro, Jaume Plensa, and Manolo Valdés. However, it also aims to exhibit national and international artistic practices from recent years.
The establishment of Museo Würth La Rioja is a testament to the Würth Group's commitment to strengthening the relationship between art, culture, and industry. Since the 1990s, the Würth Group has been developing a cultural policy that integrates exhibition programs, cultural activities, and art education into its industrial sites. Today, the Art Würth network boasts 15 exhibition spaces across Europe, each seamlessly integrated into the industrial landscape.
The exhibition program at Museo Würth La Rioja draws from the extensive Würth Collection, which was initiated by Prof. Dr. h. c. mult. Reinhold Würth, the Chairman of the Family Foundations Würth Group, in Germany in the late 1960s. This remarkable collection comprises over 15,000 pieces of modern and contemporary art, including a notable collection of paintings and late medieval sculptures. Among its most outstanding pieces are monographic funds dedicated to artists such as Hans Arp, Horst Antes, Robert Jacobsen, Max Ernst, Georg Baselitz, Eduardo Chillida, Max Bill, Christo and Jeanne-Claude, Alfred Hrdlicka, Anselm Kiefer, and José de Guimarães.
The Museo Würth La Rioja is not only a haven for art lovers but also a visual delight for architecture enthusiasts. The building, designed by the engineering and architecture firm Master S.A. and developed by Ingeniería Torrella, showcases the cutting-edge architectural style synonymous with the Würth Group. Its most striking feature is the 1400 m² glass roof, which utilizes an innovative system for fixing the glass panels. The extensive use of glass in the roof and vertical surfaces creates an interior space that is both open and flooded with natural light. The museum is surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens and water features, adorned with sculptures from the museum's collection, creating a harmonious blend of art and nature.
To fully immerse yourself in the world of contemporary art, plan a visit to Museo Würth La Rioja. The museum offers a range of services, including guided tours, virtual tours, and educational activities for both school groups and individuals. Additionally, the museum has a shop where visitors can purchase exhibition catalogs and other specialized publications.
The best time to visit Museo Würth La Rioja is during its opening hours, which are typically from Tuesday to Sunday, with specific timings varying throughout the year. It is advisable to check the museum's website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date information.
Whether you are an art enthusiast, architecture lover, or simply seeking a unique cultural experience, Museo Würth La Rioja in Agoncillo is a must-visit destination. Immerse yourself in the world of contemporary art, explore the architectural marvels, and discover the rich cultural heritage that this museum has to offer.