By Nicolás de Cárdenas
Madrid, Spain, Mar 30, 2025 / 08:00 am
In a statement published by the Archdiocese of Madrid, Cardinal José Cobo defended his role as an interlocutor between the Vatican and the Spanish government in the process of resignifying the Valley of the Fallen, a massive monument dedicated to both sides of the Spanish Civil War.
The statement, issued after the recent change of the prior of the Benedictine community at the historic site, seeks to clarify the agreements reached and the scope of the planned modifications to the monument.
Released just after 10:30 p.m. local time on March 26, the Archdiocese of Madrid’s statement regretted “the leak and dissemination of some recently published information about the resignification of the Valley of the Fallen, within an open process of dialogue.”
The concept of “resignification,” in the case of historical or symbolic spaces such as the Valley of the Fallen, seeks to reinterpret or redefine their meaning in order to adapt them to new contexts, perspectives, or purposes.
The statement from the Archdiocese of Madrid specifies that “to date, the only definitive agreement has been the permanence of the Benedictine community and the non-desacralization of the basilica, as well as respect for all religious elements located outside it.”
Exciting developments are on the horizon for the Church as a recent statement hints at modifications to a significant church building. The statement, while acknowledging that modifications are in the works, remains cryptic about the specific changes. It mentions, “Regarding any alterations within the church, they will be studied respecting the liturgical criteria and the purpose for which the basilica was built, guaranteeing independent access.”
The Archdiocese clarified that decisions related to the resignification process are solely the responsibility of the Holy See and the government, the main parties involved in negotiations. Spanish Cardinal Cobo’s involvement in this process as a designated interlocutor within an ecclesiastical commission has focused on ensuring the preservation of religious elements and the continuation of worship in the basilica.
It is important to note that Cardinal Cobo’s role extends to pastoral accompaniment and guidance, without jurisdiction over the basilica or the religious community residing there.
The swift response from the Archdiocese of Madrid followed reports of an agreement between the Vatican and the Spanish government for the political “resignification” of a monument. The agreement, allegedly finalized in a meeting between Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin and Minister of the Presidency Félix Bolaños, has stirred controversy among subscribers.
Exciting Changes Ahead
Recent developments, including the replacement of the prior at the Benedictine community, are believed to be linked to the agreement mentioned in the statement. Stay tuned for more updates on the interior of the pontifical basilica!
