The Toledo Arms Factory

Charles III of Spain drove forward the restoration of his country by setting up the Royal Factories. The Royal Sword Factory was founded on the banks of the Tagus river in Toledo, an obvious choice given the city’s long traditions and expertise in the production of bladed weapons. The factory building was envisaged by the architect and engineer Sabatini. It was an enlightened building, having two large courtyards that separated the public and business areas from the production activity. The construction project not only included the great factory itself but also the digging of the Carlos III Canal which powered the huge grindstones for sharpening the blades.

The courtyard serving the public and business area also contained a chapel, a room for factory officials, and living quarters – workers lodged in the attic and officials on the ground and first floors. The second courtyard housed the working areas.