For over 250 years, at Compañía Valenciana de la Seda we have preserved the art of textile manufacturing, combining tradition and excellence to create exclusive fabrics. We are a benchmark in the production of silks, liturgical fabrics, and textiles for high-end decoration, maintaining artisanal techniques that coexist with innovation. Our historic looms and our commitment to quality have positioned us as leaders in the sector, collaborating with costume makers, designers, and professionals who seek unique pieces.
Foundation of the Catalá textile lineage in the heart of Valencia.
In the very heart of the historic Velluters district in Valencia, Salvador Catalá laid the foundations of a textile tradition that endures to this day. His dedication to crafting velvets, espolines, brocades and damasks marked the beginning of a lineage forever linked to the arte de la seda valenciana.
From the Velluters district to the great international exhibitions. A key chapter of openness, innovation and prestige for the brand.
In 1897, Rafael Catalá Fayós, aged 42, founded the company in Paiporta under the name Rafael Catalá, shaping a new chapter in the family’s textile tradition. Just a few years later, in 1902, the firm began its international expansion, exporting fabrics to the United States and North Africa, taking Valencian silk to new horizons.
Recognition soon followed: in 1909, the workshop took part in the Valencian Exhibition as exhibitor No. 499, receiving a diploma of merit and a gold medal for its contribution to industrial development and its drive to boost exports.
As the decades passed, the company evolved without losing its essence. In 1930, it expanded its production by incorporating new raw materials such as cottons, linens and viscoses, adapting to the trends of the time. A decade later, in 1940, the fabrics of Rafael Catalá crossed new frontiers once again, showcased at major international fairs, most notably the New York World’s Fair.
Finally, in 1979, under the leadership of Alberto Catalá Ruiz de Galarreta, the company entered the era of modernisation. Electronic looms, textile-design computer systems and high-performance machinery were introduced, paving the way for a future in which tradition and innovation move forward hand in hand.
From the Spanish Royal House to the Fallas of Valencia. A period of international visibility and consolidation as a benchmark in ceremonial textiles.
Our history continued to be marked by milestones that strengthened the close relationship between tradition, prestige and modernity. In 1997, we received a commission of great significance: the Spanish Royal House entrusted us with creating the silk fabric for the wedding dress of H.R.H. Infanta Doña Cristina—an honour that placed our craftsmanship on the international stage.
In 2001, the century-old Paiporta factory moved its operations to Albuixech, a necessary step to face new challenges. One of these came from a competition launched by the City Council of Valencia among the city’s textile manufacturers to design an exclusive espolín intended for the Fallera Mayor of Valencia. Rafael Catalá won the commission with the designs Espolín Fallera Mayor de Valencia and Espolín Fallera Mayor Infantil de Valencia. That same year, our highest representatives wore this espolín for the first time— a design that has since become the official fabric of the celebration.
In 2004, we were once again part of a historic moment: the Spanish Royal House entrusted our company with weaving the silk for the wedding dress of H.R.H. Princess Letizia, now Queen of Spain.
A new era defined by family continuity, technological renewal and resilience in the wake of the 2024 DANA.
In 2010, we proudly celebrated the 240th anniversary of the company — a journey of nearly two and a half centuries forged through dedication, artistry and perseverance.
In 2015, a generational handover took place: Guillermo Catalá, representing the eighth generation, took over from his father, strengthening the continuity of the family legacy. The workshop relocated to Beniparrell and adopted a new name that reflects its identity and future vision: Compañía Valenciana de la Seda.
In October 2024, the DANA that struck Valencia marked a turning point in our history. The facilities of Compañía Valenciana de la Seda were severely affected, but that challenge became an opportunity to rise again, stronger than before.
From adversity emerged a new chapter: we modernised our facilities with state-of-the-art looms and next-generation textile-design equipment, reaffirming our commitment to quality, sustainability and innovation.
Thanks to the support and solidarity of Valencian society, we regained the rhythm of our activity and renewed the spirit that has driven us for more than two centuries. Since then, and to this day, we continue moving forward with the same passion — uniting the strength of tradition with innovation to keep the art of Valencian silk alive.
Compañía Valenciana de la Seda traces its origins to the deep silk-making tradition of the Valencian region, today led by the eighth generation of the Catalá family. In 1770, they founded the historic company Rafael Catalá, established in Valencia and born in the Velluters neighborhood, the epicenter of the flourishing silk activity of the Kingdom of Valencia.
Driven by the great vocation of the family, silk weaving has been preserved for both decoration and bridal gowns, haute couture, and regional fabrics.
That is why we have an extensive and legendary archive of antique textile documents dating back to the 18th century, allowing us to present the market with purity, styles, patterns, and colors guaranteed by historical rigor.
Alongside the most advanced looms, we continue to preserve the traditional handlooms known as “spolín,” maintaining the artisanal craft of the skilled Valencian weaver.
Safeguarding the richness of Valencian textiles means continuing to give life to our culture and heritage.
This is the core purpose of the daily work at Compañía Valenciana de la Seda.
For over 250 years, Compañía Valenciana de la Seda has been the guardian of a textile tradition that endures through the centuries. Our exclusive wooden looms, still in use today, are a testament to our unwavering commitment to craftsmanship and quality. Each fabric we create is a piece that honors our history and enriches the textile culture of generations.
We create exclusive fabrics that combine tradition, elegance,
and top quality for the most demanding sectors.
