San Simón and Santo Antón islands declared Places of Democratic Memory

The Spanish Government has officially declared the islands of San Simón and Santo Antón as Places of Democratic Memory. The resolution, published in the Official State Gazette (BOE) on August 21, was enacted under the Democratic Memory Law 20/2022.

Located in the Vigo estuary near Redondela, these islands served as a penal colony during the Spanish Civil War and the early years of the Francoist dictatorship. Operating from October 1936 until March 15, 1943, the facility housed more than 5,600 prisoners, primarily Republicans from Galicia, Pontevedra, and Asturias.

Due to severe overcrowding, lack of food, and poor living conditions, the prison saw high mortality rates. Investigations have documented over 517 deaths, in addition to victims of executions and ‘paseos’ (extrajudicial killings).

The declaration also recognizes the local solidarity shown during this period, specifically noting the role of the ‘madriñas’—women from Cesantes who provided food, clothing, and communication links for the inmates. The designation covers the entire surface area of the islands and aims to preserve the memory of human rights violations while ensuring moral reparation for the victims.