99% Invisible Valley of the Fallen
Jul 29, 2020
In this thought-provoking discussion, reporter Jennifer Omani sheds light on the Valley of the Fallen, a massive monument tied to Spain's turbulent past under Franco's dictatorship. The conversation dives into the haunting legacy of the site, a mass grave for victims of Franco's regime, and the deeply personal stories of their families seeking justice. Omani also shares gripping tales of escape from oppression and the ongoing struggle for recognition in a society grappling with its history. This dialogue challenges perceptions and highlights the urgency of confronting dark legacies.
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Family Victims
- Purificación La Peña's grandfather and great-uncle were victims of Franco's regime.
- They were targeted for their leftist views and union membership.
Mass Graves
- The Spanish Civil War created a network of mass graves across Spain.
- An estimated 114,000 people remain missing from that era.
Franco's Power Consolidation
- Franco prioritized consolidating power after the war.
- He used the Catholic Church to gain international support and operate with impunity.