Urinal Museum, Ciudad Rodrigo


Address:
Plaza de Herrasti, s/n, 37500 Cdad. Rodrigo, Salamanca, España

Incorrect data? Please notify us at hi@itinari.com.

Travel Tips For Ciudad Rodrigo

Get personalized advice based on this article from AI assistant Maya
Get the most authentic experience. Check out these guided tours and skip-the-line tickets around Ciudad Rodrigo.
If you use the above links, you pay the same price and we get a small commission - thanks for your support!

Discover the Quirky Urinal Museum in Ciudad Rodrigo


Nestled beside the magnificent cathedral of Ciudad Rodrigo in the Salamanca province of Spain, lies a hidden gem that is sure to pique the curiosity of any traveler - the Urinal Museum. This unique museum showcases a collection of over 1300 urinals from different eras, spanning from the 13th to the 20th century. Let's dive into the fascinating world of this offbeat attraction.


A Quirky Collection of Historical Urinals


Owned by José María del Arco Ortiz, also known as Pesetos, the Urinal Museum is a testament to his passion for collecting chamber pots, commodes, urinals, and other peculiar bathroom artifacts. Pesetos, along with the late Nobel Prize-winning writer Camilo José Cela, is one of the few Spanish collectors of such items.


As you explore the museum, you'll encounter an array of urinals in various styles and materials. From Victorian designs to solid silver pieces, Chinese porcelain to intricately miniature-painted pots, each exhibit tells a unique story. You'll even come across a Polish ceramic urinal, a rocking-chair urinal, and the French dompedro, which deviates from the traditional circular shape and adopts an ovaloid design reminiscent of a bidet.


Fun Facts and Historical Significance


Did you know that the warning "¡agua va!" used to be commonly heard in Spanish streets when someone was about to empty a chamber pot out of a window? This phrase, which translates to "water's coming," served as a cautionary call to those below. In English, a similar warning was "Gardy-loo," derived from the French phrase "gardez l'eau" (look out for the water). These phrases were used in times when towns lacked proper plumbing and had open sewers running down the streets.


While the Urinal Museum boasts an impressive collection, it unfortunately lacks some of the most historically significant pots. Visitors may be curious to see the chamber pot that belonged to Shakespeare's father, who was fined for the excessive filth of his latrine. Another intriguing artifact missing from the collection is one of Leonardo da Vinci's lesser-known inventions - a system of pulleys that automatically opened the bathroom windows when he sat on the Throne of Shame, allowing in the refreshing air.


Exploring Ciudad Rodrigo


Ciudad Rodrigo itself is a charming town with a rich history and stunning architecture. After visiting the Urinal Museum, take a stroll through the town's narrow streets and admire the well-preserved medieval walls that surround it. The cathedral, located next to the museum, is a must-visit for its impressive Gothic and Renaissance features.


If you have more time to spare, venture beyond Ciudad Rodrigo to explore the beautiful Salamanca province. Discover the historic city of Salamanca, known for its prestigious university and stunning Plaza Mayor. Explore the picturesque villages of La Alberca and Mogarraz, where time seems to stand still.


When to Visit


The Urinal Museum in Ciudad Rodrigo welcomes visitors throughout the year. It is advisable to check the museum's opening hours in advance, as they may vary depending on the season. The best time to visit Ciudad Rodrigo and the surrounding area is during the spring and autumn months when the weather is pleasant, and the tourist crowds are smaller.


Uncover the Unexpected


The Urinal Museum in Ciudad Rodrigo is a testament to the fact that travel is all about uncovering the unexpected. While it may not be your typical tourist attraction, it offers a unique and quirky experience that is sure to leave a lasting impression. So, if you find yourself in the Salamanca province, don't miss the opportunity to explore this one-of-a-kind museum and discover the fascinating world of historical urinals.



Want to plan a trip here? Talk to AI travel assistant Maya.

Travel stories around Urinal Museum, Ciudad Rodrigo

Places to visit around Urinal Museum, Ciudad Rodrigo