The Pyramid of the Italians, a mausoleum erected to honor Italian soldiers fallen in the Spanish Civil War
The Pyramid of the Italians is a mausoleum built between 1938 and 1939 to honor the Italian soldiers of the Corpo Truppe Volontarie fallen in the Spanish Civil War, with architecture inspired by the Pyramid of Cestius in Rome: a concrete structure clad with limestone slabs and sober geometric shapes conveying solemnity and monumentality.
Where is the Pyramid of the Italians located?
It is located in the Puerto del Escudo, in the municipality of Valle de Valdebezana (province of Burgos), next to the old road connecting Burgos and Santander, in a mountainous setting that enhances its commemorative character.
When and how was it built?
Construction began in June 1938 by initiative of Lieutenant Attilio Radic, architect of the Italian Corps of Engineers, and it was inaugurated in August 1939. The design combined the sponsorship of the Italian fascist regime and supervision of Francoist authorities, materializing in a rationalist funerary columbarium.
Why is it such a relevant monument?
The mausoleum stands out for three main reasons:
- Uniqueness: it is the only pyramidal monument in Spain dedicated to Italian soldiers of the Civil War.
- Historical value: commemorates foreign intervention in the conflict and forms part of the memory of that era.
- Heritage protection: declared a Site of Cultural Interest, preserving both its architecture and landscape surroundings.
What can visitors see?
- Exterior façade: pyramid about 20 m high, square base, and limestone cladding.
- Entrance portico: with a large capital “M” referring to Mussolini.
- Interior columbarium: circular chapel with niches for ashes and a lantern that provides natural light.
- Underground crypt: space reserved for officers, accessible via wrought iron stairs.
- Commemorative inscriptions: epigraphs recalling the fallen and their perpetual “presence.”
How is the visit organized?
Access is free and no reservation is needed. Hours vary by season:
- Summer (July 1 – September 15): mornings and afternoons with extended hours.
- Winter (September 16 – June 30): mornings and early afternoons.
For groups or guided tours, it is advisable to contact the Tourism Office of Valle de Valdebezana.
Where to find information about schedules and rates?
Check the official Castilla y León Tourism website or the local Tourism Office of Valle de Valdebezana for updated schedules and guided visits.
What else to see nearby?
- Route 623: itinerary through historical and natural sites of the area.
- Merindades of Burgos: traditional villages and mountain landscapes.
- Ebro Reservoir: excellent for hiking and birdwatching.
- Church of Santa María de Retortillo: nearby Romanesque jewel.
In sum, the Pyramid of the Italians offers a unique experience of history, architecture, and landscape, evoking the memory of a controversial episode in 20th century Spain.
How to get there
Decimal: 43.040278°, -3.878056°
DMS: 43°2'25" N, 3°52'41" O
