New Hand Lab
A former wool factory reborn as a dynamic art hub, blending industrial heritage with contemporary exhibitions and fostering young talent.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more art immersion
New Hand Lab
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more art immersion
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A former wool factory reborn as a dynamic art hub, blending industrial heritage with contemporary exhibitions and fostering young talent.
"An old factory transformed into a magical place of art exhibitions and an incubator for young artists."
🎨 Immerse in Art
Explore both permanent and temporary exhibitions for a full artistic journey.
☕ Grab a Bite
Food and drinks are available on-site, perfect for a break between exhibits.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Industrial Heritage Meets Art
Main exhibition halls
Explore a former wool factory showcasing vibrant art, blending traditional crafts with new tech. A truly inspiring space!
AURORA Exhibition
Temporary exhibition space
Experience 'AURORA,' a textile art piece born from dedication and love, now shared with the public.
Young Artist Incubator
Designated artist spaces
Witness the future of art in this incubator for young talent, showcasing fresh creations and innovative ideas.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Art & History
Plan Your Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎨 Immerse in Art
Explore both permanent and temporary exhibitions for a full artistic journey.
☕ Grab a Bite
Food and drinks are available on-site, perfect for a break between exhibits.
✨ Experience 'AURORA'
Don't miss the 'AURORA' textile art piece, a highlight of dedication and love.
📸 Capture the Vibe
The mix of industrial machines and modern art makes for stunning photos.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎨 Immerse in Art
Explore both permanent and temporary exhibitions for a full artistic journey.
☕ Grab a Bite
Food and drinks are available on-site, perfect for a break between exhibits.
✨ Experience 'AURORA'
Don't miss the 'AURORA' textile art piece, a highlight of dedication and love.
📸 Capture the Vibe
The mix of industrial machines and modern art makes for stunning photos.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise New Hand Lab for its inspiring transformation of a historic wool factory into a vibrant art space, celebrating both traditional crafts and modern innovation. While some found the food offerings average, the unique atmosphere and captivating art exhibitions, including special pieces like 'AURORA,' make it a highly recommended cultural stop in Covilhã.
"I love this place! ❤️
This visit was my third time at the NewHandLab. If you go to Covilhã, you should definitely visit this spot. This establishment, which used to be a wool production factory, has become a historical heritage site that tells one of Covilhã's many stories. It's an inspiring place that awakens your inner child. When you walk through its halls, you're captivated by the vibrant colors and beautiful creations from both permanent and temporary artists. Each piece tells a different story, yet every story resonates and touches your heart in its own way.
What's truly special is how this place preserves the traditional soul of wool creations while seamlessly integrating new technologies, materials, and events. It's a must-see destination, along with the magnificent Serra da Estrella mountains that surround the city."
ilaf Haidar
"An old factory transformed into a magical place of art exhibitions and an incubator for young artists.
Food and drinks are also available."
Ouranio Anastasiou
"Nice location, could be more entertaining... Had food, which was lala"
Bernhard Koelmel
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
New Hand Lab is located in Covilhã. You can reach Covilhã by car via major highways or by train. Once in the city, local buses or taxis can take you to the former wool factory site.
Parking availability can vary, especially during events. It's advisable to check local parking options in Covilhã or consider public transport if available.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Information on ticket prices and booking is usually available on their official website or social media pages. It's best to check in advance, especially for special exhibitions.
Opening hours can vary depending on the day and any ongoing events. Always check the official New Hand Lab channels for the most up-to-date information before your visit.
Yes, New Hand Lab frequently hosts temporary exhibitions, such as the 'AURORA' textile art. These are often highlighted on their social media.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Expect a unique blend of industrial heritage from its past as a wool factory, alongside vibrant contemporary art exhibitions, including permanent and temporary installations.
The space is inspiring and visually engaging, potentially awakening a visitor's inner child. However, supervision is recommended, especially around industrial machinery.
Photography is generally allowed, and the mix of industrial elements and modern art makes it a great spot for photos. Be mindful of any specific restrictions for certain exhibits.
'AURORA' is a textile art piece created with significant dedication and love, now available for public viewing and experience.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, food and drinks are available on-site, offering a convenient option for visitors to relax and refuel during their visit.
Reviews suggest a food offering is available, though one visitor described it as 'lala.' It's best to manage expectations or check recent reviews for current offerings.
📸 📸 Photography
The juxtaposition of old industrial machinery with colorful, modern art creates fantastic photo opportunities. Look for unique angles and textures.
While generally permitted, always be respectful of the art and other visitors. Check for any specific signage regarding photography in certain areas or for specific artworks.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during less crowded times to allow children more freedom to observe and interact with the exhibits. The on-site food and drink options also make it convenient for families needing a break. It's a great opportunity to introduce children to art and industrial heritage in an unconventional setting.
🎨 Art Enthusiasts & Creatives
This space is particularly inspiring for creatives, serving as an incubator for young talent. The juxtaposition of traditional wool crafts with modern technology and artistic expression can provide fresh perspectives and fuel creative endeavors. Don't miss the chance to absorb the atmosphere and perhaps find inspiration for your own projects.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Transformation of a Wool Factory
This fusion allows for a dynamic exhibition environment. Visitors can wander through halls that once buzzed with the sounds of looms, now filled with visual stories from both permanent collections and rotating temporary exhibits. The integration of new technologies and materials alongside traditional wool crafts highlights the innovative spirit of the artists and the venue itself. It’s this seamless blend that makes New Hand Lab a truly inspiring destination, awakening the inner child and sparking imagination.
Artistic Innovation and 'AURORA'
A standout example of this artistic dedication is the 'AURORA' exhibition. Described as a textile art piece born from immense dedication, love, and effort, 'AURORA' represents the culmination of a significant project. Its unveiling marks a moment where personal passion becomes a shared experience, inviting everyone to witness and engage with its artistry.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit