Change at the Abbey: A Shift Towards Democratic Values in Cuelgamuros
The Minister of the Presidency, Justice and Relations with the Courts, Félix Bolaños, expressed satisfaction on Friday over the replacement of Santiago Cantera as prior of the Abbey of the Holy Cross of the Valley of the Fallen. According to Bolaños, Cantera's views were aligned with nostalgia for Francoism, which stands in stark opposition to democratic values. This transition is being celebrated as a significant step forward for democracy in Spain, particularly as it coincides with the ongoing process to recontextualize the Valley of Cuelgamuros, previously known as the Valley of the Fallen, and the commemoration of the 50th anniversary of dictator Francisco Franco's death.
Santiago Cantera's tenure ended after completing the maximum three terms allowed in his position, paving the way for Alfredo Maroto to take over as prior of the Abbey. Bolaños highlighted that the Spanish Government had previously communicated to the Church the necessity of appointing a prior who does not have associations with Francoist ideology. As the key figure in negotiations with the Catholic Church regarding the future of the Valley, Bolaños has been working closely with key institutions, including the Vatican Nunciature, the Episcopal Conference, and the Archdiocese of Madrid.
The Government is currently awaiting the approval of a royal decree aimed at establishing a new legal framework for the Valley of Cuelgamuros. This decree will outline its organization, operation, and heritage regime, in accordance with the democratic memory law. Should this decree be enacted, the Foundation of the Holy Cross of the Valley of the Fallen—responsible for managing the site—will effectively be dissolved. This transition will also mean the departure of the Benedictine monks who have been residing and managing the abbey, hostel, and choir at the location.
Additionally, the Government plans to initiate an international competition for ideas that will contribute to redefining the meaning of the Valley of Cuelgamuros. The goal is to educate citizens about the historical context of this monument, deemed a Francoist relic, which houses the largest mass grave in Spain, containing over 33,000 bodies exhumed from various locations nationwide after the Civil War. The undertaking reflects a broader commitment to preserving democratic values and ensuring that the history of the site is understood in light of its controversial past.
Related Sources: