Ibi: the Payá factory, its museums and Barranc dels Molins

The former Payá factory is a useful landmark in Ibi: it brings toy-making history and a nature-focused visit into the same setting without merging their collections. Both museums occupy parts of this factory complex, but they tell different stories.

Toys as a record of working life

The Valencian Toy Museum opened its permanent factory premises in 2013. An essential part of the collection came from the workers of the Payá cooperative and includes toys made in Ibi and Germany. Looking at origins and materials helps you see industrial heritage, rather than childhood nostalgia alone.

Outside the museum, the Toy Centenary Monument in Plaza del Centenario honours the people who worked in the industry. It continues that story in a public space.

Two ways to change the subject

The Biodiversity Museum grew from a partnership between the council and the University of Alicante’s CIBIO research centre. It addresses Mediterranean ecosystems and threats such as introduced species. Its natural-history focus differs from the industrial museum even though they share a setting.

Casa Gran, opposite the Transfiguración church, houses the Festival Museum, with costumes and objects from the Moors and Christians celebrations. It is not the Toy Museum’s current home, an important distinction if you are using an old reference to find your way.

For an outdoor alternative, locate Barranc dels Molins, north of the town, using Ibi Tourism’s information. Treat it as a separate excursion and choose a route before setting out. For the town visit, selecting one main collection avoids turning the day into a race between display cases.