Puerto Real seeks funding to identify 134 Francoist repression victims via DNA

Adelante Andalucía has requested a 50,000 euro grant from the Spanish Federation of Municipalities and Provinces (FEMP) to fund DNA testing for 134 victims of Francoist repression. The victims are buried in a mass grave at the San Roque cemetery in Puerto Real.

The project aims to compare genetic samples from the recovered remains with biological samples provided by family members to restore the identities of those who remain unnamed. This initiative follows extensive historical research involving government, military, and ecclesiastical archives, as well as the collection of testimonies and lists of repressed individuals.

Archaeological work at the site, which measures approximately 31 meters in length, has been ongoing for decades. Previous interventions between 2014 and 2016 recovered 193 bodies. If the funding is approved, the project will move toward the final stages of recognition, which include installing nameplates in the cemetery, organizing public acts of reparation, and creating educational resources.