The museum holds one of the world's most significant collections of playing cards, dating back to the 15th century.
The Fournier company, now part of Cartamundi, remains globally recognized for its standard Spanish deck designs.
The site is built within the 16th-century Bendaña Palace, which retains its original Renaissance courtyard.
The archaeological wing features rare Roman-era stelae discovered in the surrounding Alava region.
The name 'BIBAT' is a Basque word meaning 'two in one', reflecting the dual nature of the museum complex.
The modern extension by architect Patxi Mangado won the 'Enor' Architecture Prize for its use of copper cladding.
The collection includes rare, hand-painted decks produced before the invention of mechanical printing.
The museum displays original machinery used in the 19th-century lithographic printing processes of the Fournier factory.
The BIBAT complex in Vitoria-Gasteiz uniquely houses two distinct museums: the Fournier Playing Card Museum and the Archaeology Museum. The Fournier collection displays over 20,000 items related to the history of card games, originating from the legacy of the Heraclio Fournier printing house founded in 1868. The archaeology wing showcases Basque historical artifacts ranging from the Paleolithic era to the Middle Ages. The institution occupies the Bendaña Palace, a Renaissance building, alongside a modern architectural extension designed by Patxi Mangado. Visitors explore the evolution of card design, manufacturing techniques, and printing technology. The archaeological collection features significant epigraphic and numismatic finds from the province of Araba. The site acts as a center for both industrial heritage and regional historical research. Its integration of ancient stone structures with contemporary design provides a distinct contrast in exhibition environments.
The internal connecting hallway between the Renaissance palace and the modern copper-clad extension.
Dedicate time to the Bendaña Palace courtyard to appreciate the blend of 16th-century architecture and modern lighting.
Check the temporary exhibition hall, as the museum frequently hosts displays on specialized printing techniques.
Visit the archaeological section first to understand the historical context of the city before moving to the card collection.
Do not attempt to navigate the steep, narrow streets of the Medieval Quarter by car; park in designated perimeter lots.
Closed on Mondays.
Maintain a quiet volume; photography is permitted for personal use but flash is prohibited near sensitive ancient documents.
