The exhumation of Francisco Franco's remains from the Valley of the Fallen in October 2019 is still resonating in Spanish society. Jesús Ruiz Mantilla, in his latest novel, 'Franco y yo,' is now delving into the tensions experienced within the basilica between government representatives and the Franco family. This is currently providing a new perspective on a historical event that continues to spark debate and reflection.

A Morning of Sobriety and Remembrance

María del Mar Martínez-Bordiú, known as Merry, one of Franco's granddaughters, carefully considered her attire for the exhumation. According to Ruiz Mantilla (2025), she chose a dark navy blue pantsuit, complemented by a black top and a matching wool coat, aiming for sobriety and respect without resorting to overt mourning. The choice of comfortable shoes reflected the long and emotionally charged day ahead. It is being said that Merry did not utter a smile that day.

The day began before dawn, with Merry leaving her house around 6:00 AM. She preferred silence during the 50-kilometer journey, focusing on the magnitude of the event she was about to witness as the family's representative. Dolores Delgado, then Minister of Justice, was acting as the highest authority present, representing the Spanish government.

Government's Resolve and Family's Resistance

The exhumation was the culmination of a political will initiated by the President of the Government, who saw it as a necessary step towards normalizing Spain's historical memory. The decision had been analyzed by the Executive, approved by the Legislative, and endorsed by the courts. Despite the legal and moral justifications within a democratic framework, the exhumation was not without its challenges, especially considering the deeply ingrained sensitivities surrounding Franco's legacy.

The Franco family, accompanied by their lawyer Luis Felipe Utrera Molina, traveled from Madrid to the Valley of the Fallen. Upon arrival, they were greeted by Benedictine monks, who reportedly apologized for failing to safeguard Franco's remains as entrusted to them. Prior Santiago Cantera offered confession, which some family members accepted. Francis Franco, the eldest grandson, carried the flag that had draped Franco's coffin during the original burial, intending to place it again on the coffin during the exhumation.

Inside the Basilica: Tensions and Words

Inside the basilica, preparations were underway for the delicate operation. The tomb had been covered with tarpaulins and scaffolding. Only a select few were allowed to enter, including Merry and her brother José Cristóbal, along with government officials and a forensic doctor. Mobile phones were confiscated to maintain privacy. According to El País (2025), safety measures included methacrylate glasses and masks for everyone present due to the nature of the work.

As the workers began to remove the tombstone, the sounds echoed through the basilica, creating a sense of interrupted eternity. It is said that the removal of the heavy slab triggered tears and sobs among the Franco family. In that moment of silence, Merry turned to the opening and uttered, «Aquí estoy otra vez, abuelo, con tus profanadores» (“Here I am again, Grandfather, with your desecrators”). The air was thick with the smell of formaldehyde, making it difficult for some to breathe.

The Aftermath and Lasting Impact

The family refused to transfer the body to a new coffin, despite concerns about the original coffin's condition. Merry insisted on documenting their concerns, but Dolores Delgado denied their request to include a more extensive statement. The coffin was reinforced and covered with a brown tarpaulin. While the family wanted to adorn it with the original flag, they were eventually allowed to use the family's coat of arms and the Laureate Cross of Saint Ferdinand.

Before the doors opened, Father Cantera recited a prayer, wearing the same chasuble worn during Franco's original burial. José Cristóbal encouraged the pallbearers to carry the coffin with pride, reminding them that they were carrying “the best man Spain has ever had.”

As the funeral procession made its way to the hearse and then the helicopter, the representatives of the State guarded the basilica. The event marked a turning point in Spain's historical narrative, separating the past from the present. Dolores Delgado, as the highest authority, ensured that the exhumation was carried out according to the law, fulfilling her duty.

A Place Transformed

The Valley of the Fallen would never be the same. What once was a stone mausoleum exalting infamy has been transformed into a place where the past is still discussed, but within a democratic framework. As Ediciones EL PAÍS S.L. (1976) notes, the exhumation represents a significant step towards a more nuanced understanding of Spain's history.

  • The exhumation process was meticulously planned to avoid any unexpected incidents.
  • The Benedictine monks were instructed by the Vatican not to resist the exhumation.
  • The Franco family was closely monitored by the authorities to prevent any disturbances.

In conclusion, the exhumation of Francisco Franco's remains continues to be a subject of profound significance, embodying Spain's ongoing journey towards reconciliation and historical clarity. The event, as narrated by Jesús Ruiz Mantilla and documented by various news sources, serves as a reminder of the complexities involved in confronting a divisive past.

References

Ediciones EL PAÍS S.L. (1976). El País. Retrieved from https://elpais.com

Ruiz Mantilla, J. (2025). Franco y yo. España.