• A journey from the historic Model Farm, dating back to 1851, to the Agriculture 4.0 solutions that are transforming the Álava region today
• A cultural and innovative experience to enjoy during the spring holidays in the heart of Vitoria-Gasteiz

With the arrival of the spring holidays – from Holy Week and Easter Week through to the festivities of San Prudencio and 1 May – Vitoria-Gasteiz becomes the ideal setting for rediscovering our history. Among the highlights for these days is a visit to Arkabia, the recently renovated centre of the Vital Fundazioa Foundation, which is hosting the exhibition “Crossroads”. This exhibition is not only a journey through the past, present and future of Álava, but also an opportunity to gain an in-depth understanding of the fundamental role that agricultural innovation has played in the development of our region.

The exhibition marks a significant milestone: the 175th anniversary of Caja Vital, founded in 1850. Almost in parallel, NEIKER is also celebrating its own history, the origins of which date back to 1851 with the creation of the Model Farm. In 2026, we mark 175 years of commitment to the primary sector, and for this reason we occupy a prominent place in this exhibition, where we share with the public the milestones that have made us what we are today: a leading centre for research and technology transfer.

Beyond the potato: a legacy that nourishes the present

Although NEIKER is widely recognised in Álava and beyond for its long-standing work in the potato sector, our presence at “Crossroads” aims to broaden that perspective. The exhibition space offers a unique visual experience through detailed information sheets and artistic photographs of the different potato varieties, paying tribute to this product so dear to us. However, this is merely the starting point for a much broader narrative on food sovereignty and scientific knowledge.

Through a detailed timeline and a series of videos showcasing our current activities, visitors will discover that we are much more than just our history. The exhibition explores how we have evolved towards Agriculture 4.0 and how we are working today to ensure the sector’s sustainability. It is an invitation to view science not as something distant, but as the driving force that has enabled Álava to adapt to social and economic changes for almost two centuries.

 

Innovation and sustainability for the benefit of the region

The ‘Crossroads’ exhibition also offers a glimpse into the future. Against a backdrop marked by the climate emergency and the need for new solutions for the forestry and agri-food sectors, NEIKER is showcasing its cutting-edge research at Arkabia. From promoting the bioeconomy to integrating the One Health approach — which links environmental, animal and human health — the centre’s participation in this exhibition underlines our commitment to the challenges of tomorrow.

We invite all citizens and visitors to make the most of these bank holidays to visit Arkabia and immerse themselves in a journey that combines history, science and a transformative vision of our region. The exhibition is free and will remain open until 17 May, offering a perfect opportunity to understand how the research we carry out every day directly impacts what we eat and the environment we live in. Don’t miss the chance to discover the crossroads where our traditions meet the most advanced technology.