A journey of memory and tribute
This Sunday, the town of Masquefa hosted a commemorative event dedicated to four emblematic figures who suffered the consequences of fascism and Franco’s repression. The day was marked by a route that began on Carrer del Serralet and culminated on Carrer Major, with the presence of Mayor Roger Vázquez, members of the council, historian Xavier Pérez and relatives of those honored.
Remembering Isidre Castanyer Prat
The first stop was at ‘Cal Castanyer’, a beautiful modernist building that had housed Isidre Castanyer Prat, who was the town’s mayor. Xavier Pérez, together with a relative of Castanyer, recounted how he was abruptly arrested on May 27, 1939, without being able to say goodbye to his loved ones, and executed by the Franco regime. His last communication, a message written in a lunchbox for his family, was a reminder of his sacrifice. In a solemn moment, the mayor and family unveiled a commemorative plaque in his honor.
Tribute to Salvador Bonastre Mas
The tour continued to the ‘Torre dels Lleons’, where tribute was paid to Salvador Bonastre Mas, a trade unionist who played a crucial role during the Civil War as secretary of the CNT. His daughters, with great emotion, shared memories of their father, who was assassinated on April 7, 1938 in an act of counter-revolutionary violence. The mayor participated in the unveiling of a commemorative plaque, a gesture that symbolizes his contribution and sacrifice.
The figure of Joan Bonastre Ferrer
The next stop was at ‘Ca la Laia’, where Joan Bonastre Ferrer, known as ‘El Laio’, grew up. This defender of the rights of the rabassaires and first democratic mayor of Masquefa during the 2nd Republic suffered political exile in France after the Civil War. In a moving ceremony, his commemorative plaque was unveiled, remembering his struggle and his commitment to the community.
Antoni Callís Matacavas, another name to remember
Finally, the tour took attendees to ‘Ca la Laieta – Cal Callís’, where Antoni Callís Matacavas was honored. Although his family could not be present, Xavier Pérez told the story of this mechanic and former mayor who was imprisoned by the Franco regime and lived under supervised release until 1955. Mayor Vázquez unveiled the commemorative plaque, an act that represents the reparation and memory of a man who fought for his people.
Reflections on the past and the future
With this commemorative event, which comes eighty-five years after the end of the Civil War, Masquefa takes a small but significant step towards reconciliation of the wounds that still persist in the collective memory. Many families still hope to be able to pay tribute to their loved ones, a reminder that tributes often come late, but that their importance is vital for building a peaceful future.
