Under the direction of several architects and military engineers, the Arsenal of Ferrol was built in the 18th century, which became one of the most difficult undertakings of the Spain of the Enlightenment and which will link the city from then on with the ups and downs of shipbuilding and the complex decisions of the State.

Due to its military and industrial functions, the Arsenal is divided in two: the Arsenal of the Park, western part, and the Arsenal of the Docks, both with monumental gates. Inside the enclosure are: the Weapons Room, closed to the north by the Instruction Barracks; the Dique de la Campana ( 19th century), which was one of the largest docks in the world in its time; the Blacksmiths’ Building, which houses the Museum of Naval Constructionand the Naval Museum and the Library of the Maritime Zone of the Cantabrian Sea, located in the old San Carpio jail.

The Arsenal is declared a Cultural Interest Site.