Valle de los Caídos Valley of the Fallen
Cuelgamuros Valley, Sierra de Guadarrama, Vicinity of Madrid
This incredible structure is a Catholic basilica built originally as a memorial by Spanish general and dictator, Francisco Franco, to honour and bury those who fell during the Spanish Civil War. It was claimed by Franco that the monument was conceived as a "national act of atonement and reconciliation". However, even to this day it remains controversial. Consider that 10% of the construction workforce consisted of convicts, some of which were political prisoners. Consider Franco and Jose Antonio Primo de River (founder of the Spanish Fascist movement) are buried there. These graves continue to be a symbol of fascism and is a draw to those still inclined toward it. Antonio said that only a few months earlier when he was visiting with a group, a young man came up to Franco's grave, knelt on one knee and made the 'Heil Hitler' salute. A bit shocking and alarming I am not ashamed to admit.
Regardless, this monument which Franco wanted to reflect "the grandeur of the monuments of old, which defy time and forgetfulness" does, without question, meet that criteria and is absolutely awe inspiring.
Regardless, this monument which Franco wanted to reflect "the grandeur of the monuments of old, which defy time and forgetfulness" does, without question, meet that criteria and is absolutely awe inspiring.
The cross - "The Basilica de la Santa Cruz del Valle de los Caídos" is the tallest memorial cross in the world and is hewn out of the granite ridge upon which it stands. The long vault was tunneled out of solid granite, piercing directly into the side of the mountain. It continues to the massive transept which lies exactly below the cross. (The pictures of its interior were taken from the web since no pictures are allowed inside, a rule which I honour.)
In 1960 Pope John XXIII declared the underground crypt a basilica. However, not unconditionally. Although Franco said this was a tribute to the Spanish people conceived as a act of reconciliation, the only bodies buried there were those which fought on his side. His Holiness would not sanctify the structure until it also housed the earthly remains of soldiers from Franco's opposition as well. In addition, since no church or basilica can be larger than St. Peter's in Rome, the vault had to be divided with gates so that the basilica proper was shortened.
It was built in a breathtaking, inspiring and incredibly beautiful setting. (Do not neglect to cycle through the slide show. I think you will enjoy it.)
It took my breath away.
In 1960 Pope John XXIII declared the underground crypt a basilica. However, not unconditionally. Although Franco said this was a tribute to the Spanish people conceived as a act of reconciliation, the only bodies buried there were those which fought on his side. His Holiness would not sanctify the structure until it also housed the earthly remains of soldiers from Franco's opposition as well. In addition, since no church or basilica can be larger than St. Peter's in Rome, the vault had to be divided with gates so that the basilica proper was shortened.
It was built in a breathtaking, inspiring and incredibly beautiful setting. (Do not neglect to cycle through the slide show. I think you will enjoy it.)
It took my breath away.