Paterna Memorial

The Paterna Memorial, located in the cemetery of Paterna in Spain's Horta Nord region, stands as a poignant reminder of the tragedies of the Spanish Civil War and the subsequent Francoist dictatorship. This solemn site, known as El Terrer or La Paredassa d'Espanya, is a place of reflection and remembrance, dedicated to the 2,238 individuals who were executed and buried in mass graves here between 1939 and 1956. The memorial serves as a symbol of the resilience and enduring spirit of those who suffered during one of Spain's darkest periods.

The Historical Context

The executions at Paterna began on April 3, 1939, just two days after Francisco Franco declared victory in the Spanish Civil War. The area, situated near a military barracks, became a site of mass executions. The wall used for the executions, a ten-meter-high mound supported by a stone structure, allowed for the firing squads to operate with chilling efficiency. The proximity of the cemetery to the urban core meant that the sounds of gunfire often echoed through the nearby homes, a haunting reminder of the violence taking place.

Most of the executed were buried in common graves, covered with a layer of quicklime and then earth. The families of the victims, often warned through clandestine messages from the prison, would gather near the execution site, bearing silent witness to the tragic fate of their loved ones. The Paterna Memorial now stands as a testament to these individuals and their families, ensuring that their stories are not forgotten.

The Graves of Paterna

While it is estimated that there are between 65 and 135 mass graves in Paterna, only 22 have been opened or studied. These graves hold the remains of those who were executed in the early months following the occupation of Valencia by Francoist forces. Each grave tells a story of the individuals from various towns and cities across Spain, brought together in death by the brutal repression of the dictatorship.

Fossa 21

One of the most notable graves is Fossa 21, where 78 bodies were buried between July 15 and 21, 1939. This grave includes individuals from Ontinyent, Valencia, Bocairent, Quart de Poblet, and other towns. The exhumation of these bodies began in December 2020, driven by a demand from the local government of Quart de Poblet. The project, funded by the Generalitat Valenciana, aims to bring closure to the families of the victims by identifying and honoring their loved ones.

Fossa 22

Fossa 22, believed to contain 38 to 54 bodies, was exhumed in 2018, revealing 33 bodies executed on July 28, 1939. Among the buried, it is thought that Jovino Fernández Díaz, the last Republican mayor of Xàtiva, may be found. The process of exhumation and identification has been documented in the film Les llavors que van créixer. Fossa 22, highlighting the intergenerational transmission of memory and the ongoing fight for justice.

Other Notable Graves

Fossa 33, Fossa 74, Fosses 81 and 82, and many others each hold their own tragic histories. The exhumation efforts have been supported by various local and regional governments, as well as by the families of the victims. These efforts are not just about recovering bodies but also about reclaiming the history and dignity of those who were silenced by the regime.

The Memorial's Significance

The Paterna Memorial is more than just a site of mourning; it is a place of education and reflection. The memorial includes a series of tiles inscribed with the names of the victims, a powerful visual representation of the scale of the tragedy. The site also features a tall, colorful monument that stands as a beacon of remembrance and resilience.

Visitors to the Paterna Memorial are often struck by the solemn beauty of the site. The carefully maintained grounds, the colorful tiles, and the towering monument all contribute to a sense of reverence and respect. The memorial serves as a reminder of the importance of remembering the past, not just to honor those who suffered, but to ensure that such atrocities are never repeated.

A Place of Reflection

The Paterna Memorial invites visitors to reflect on the impact of the Spanish Civil War and the Francoist dictatorship. It is a place where history is made tangible, where the stories of the past are brought to life through the names and memories of those who perished. The memorial stands as a powerful testament to the enduring human spirit, a place where the lessons of history are preserved for future generations.

In conclusion, the Paterna Memorial is a site of profound historical and emotional significance. It honors the memory of those who were executed and buried in Paterna, and it serves as a powerful reminder of the resilience and strength of the human spirit in the face of oppression. For visitors to Paterna, the memorial offers an opportunity to connect with history, to reflect on the past, and to honor the memories of those who suffered during one of Spain's darkest periods.