Discover "Collection Rarities": An Exhibition of Telefónica's Technological Heritage at Espacio Fundación Telefónica.

This exhibition delves into the lesser-known aspects of Telefónica's technological heritage, showcasing hundreds of rare and unique objects related to telecommunications. It highlights the intricate work, specialized tools, and historical innovations that underpinned the development of telephone services.

Did you think that Telefónica’s technological heritage only comprised switchboards, telephones or different types of cabling? Then think again: among the more than 10,000 objects in our collection there are some really rare pieces; hundreds of different items with diverse uses, some of which are even quite difficult to identify, all associated with the world of telecommunications. The Collection Rarities exhibition aims to shine a spotlight on these other pieces – unknown, yet absolutely necessary in the complex system of establishing and improving telephone communications over the decades. They might look odd or unique and sometimes even quite attractive, but what the objects displayed in this room aim to reveal is the number of people and the level of specialist work involved in the intricate web of telecommunications. They also illustrate the unusual methods – some of which have now vanished – of certain jobs and the history of technology at each given time. This little journey through certain pieces from Telefónica’s historical and technological heritage also serves as food for thought on the need to preserve and document part of our history. The fact is that to be able to put on this exhibition it was essential to refer to the archived documentation. The tasks carried out painstakingly by the Testing Laboratory (from 1926 through to the present day) and the manuals, certificates and newsletters published by Telefónica from the 1920s demonstrate the company’s interest in putting everything in order, standardizing working procedures and creating a business culture which, with hindsight, shows how very advanced we were for those times. We can now enjoy these objects that illustrate meticulous, painstaking work, the innovations in the telephone service and, most importantly, the history and the evolution of technology in our country. The exhibition is divided into sections such as "IT’S ALL CHECKED: THE GENERAL TESTING LABORATORY," detailing the lab's role from 1926 onwards in quality control and material analysis, featuring items like rheostats and microscopes used for electrical and material studies. Another section, "ON MY HONOUR: TELEPHONE SPLICERS AND LINEMEN," describes the rigorous training and requirements for these essential roles, showcasing tools like carbide lamps and candle-boxes. The display also touches upon the manual billing processes, the evolution of automatic switchboards, and emergency power systems like mercury switches and battery backups, highlighting Telefónica's commitment to safety and technological advancement throughout its history.

The exhibition is located at Espacio Fundación Telefónica, C/ Fuencarral, 3, Madrid. Opening hours are Monday-Thursday and Friday from 10:00 to 20:00, and Saturdays, Sundays, and Holidays from 11:00 to 20:00. Visitors can add the event to their calendar using the provided iCal link.