Valley of Cuelgamuros

The Valley of Cuelgamuros encompasses a Catholic basilica and memorial site in the Sierra de Guadarrama, spreading across several hectares at an elevation of roughly 900 meters. The complex is topped by an enormous cross visible from far away, marking the highest point of the site.

The complex was built between 1940 and 1958, using both professional workers and prisoners. This construction was part of a larger project that began after the end of the civil war in Spain.

The monument draws visitors who come here on certain religious occasions to remember the dead. The site is also visited by pilgrims and hikers who interpret the spiritual meaning of the place for themselves.

The site is located roughly 9 kilometers north of El Escorial in the mountains and requires a winding approach road. The large cross serves as a landmark visible from afar, so you can spot the site from a distance.

The underground basilica was carved directly from the solid granite rock and exceeds in size many known European church buildings. The crypt holds the remains of more than 33,000 war casualties from both sides of the civil war.

Location: San Lorenzo de El Escorial

Inception: 1940

Founders: Francisco Franco

Architects: Pedro Muguruza, Diego Méndez

Official opening: April 1, 1959

Height: 152.4 m

Website: https://patrimonionacional.es/visita/valle-de-cuelgamuros-0

GPS coordinates: 40.64142,-4.15694

Latest update: December 3, 2025 09:13