I have read all sorts of posted rumours over the past few years about "The Valley of the Fallen" being CLOSED. My friend is currently in Madrid and has just visited the site. He emailed me photos that prove beyond a doubt that the site is OPEN!
Posted by
Danville, VT
12040 posts
Spain recently changed from a left of center to right of center government, so that's probably why it reopened. Some allege that the former Socialist government kept it closed for political reasons, although the official explanation was public safety during restoration work.
Posted by
Myrtle Beach, USA
12313 posts
@Tom, I hadn't heard the political thing, just that it was closed for renovations. I guess it opening so soon after a "guard-changing" election gives some credence to the rumor. It's not one of the sights I'm planning to visit during my upcoming Spain trip anyway. I'm currently reading a book written by George Orwell, while fighting against Franco, "Homage to Catalonia". I want to go to Spain with an understanding of the Civil War but I don't like to visit "downer" sights during my vacations.
Posted by
Madrid, Madrid, Spain
80 posts
Yes, the "Valley of the Fallen" - or "Valle de los Caídos" - was reopened in June 2011 or earlier (at least 5 months before the elections). I saw that reported in another forum. ;-) Saludos, MadridMan - AND BarcelonaMan - @ you-know-where!
Posted by
St. Paul, MN
16 posts
I was there in early May of 2011 and it was open. My husband and I definitely think it is worth seeing.