Last October, the DANA weather system caused catastrophic flooding across the Comunitat Valenciana, devastating homes and infrastructure. In Paiporta, a municipality in the L’Horta Sud region, the torrential rains lifted ground layers and unearthed something remarkable: underground shelters dating back to the Spanish Civil War.
Residents of Dr. Cajal and Sant Roc streets reported the discovery after the floodwaters receded. Some had long suspected the presence of these shelters, but others were taken completely by surprise. These interconnected corridors, believed to run beneath the old town area (‘Ciutat Vella’), had been concealed for decades.
The importance of the Civil War shelters
The discovery has drawn the attention of heritage experts and architects. Francisco Juan, director of the University Institute for the Restoration of Heritage at the Polytechnic University of Valencia (UPV), noted that while the shelters were a surprise for many, they were part of local lore among older generations.
Juan highlights two key aspects of the find:
- Structural safety: The first priority is assessing how the shelters affect the stability of nearby buildings, especially given the flood damage. Ensuring the safety of the structures above is critical.
- Cultural significance: These shelters are a window into Spain’s Civil War history. They represent a tangible connection to the past and are invaluable for understanding the local experience of the conflict. Juan stresses the importance of cataloguing and preserving these spaces, documenting their condition and accessibility for future study.
Challenges and cooperation ahead
The excavation and preservation process will take time. Many properties in the area are affected, and coordinating efforts among residents, institutions, and universities is vital. Although some residents are eager for quick action, Juan urges patience, emphasising that a collaborative approach is essential to ensure both safety and cultural preservation.
Local and regional authorities, as well as academic institutions, have offered to assist in the project, recognising the shelters as a key part of Spain’s historical memory.
A brief overview of The Spanish Civil War
The Spanish Civil War (1936–1939) was a deeply divisive conflict that pitted the Republican government against Nationalist forces led by General Francisco Franco. The war stemmed from long-standing political, social, and economic tensions, including struggles over land reform, workers’ rights, and regional autonomy. Backed by Nazi Germany and Fascist Italy, Franco’s forces ultimately prevailed, leading to his authoritarian rule that lasted until 1975. The war left a profound impact on Spain, with countless lives lost and a legacy of repression, exile, and cultural upheaval. Discoveries like the Civil War shelters in Paiporta serve as stark reminders of the conflict’s enduring imprint on Spain’s history and collective memory.
A living reminder of Spain’s past
The shelters in Paiporta provide a rare glimpse into a turbulent chapter of Spanish history. As investigations continue, they may reveal more about the lives of those who sought refuge underground during the Civil War. This discovery, while born out of destruction, offers an opportunity to preserve and learn from the past, connecting today’s residents with the stories of their predecessors.
The unexpected find underscores the resilience of Paiporta’s community, which is now working together to recover from the floods and safeguard its historical legacy for future generations.