Documentary
Madrid puerta
de escape
How Franco's dictatorship transformed the Spanish capital into a strategic refuge for German Nazis and Italian fascists after World War II.
Role
Cinematography-DOP
Editing
Production
Quality Media
RTVE
Madrid became a comfortable refuge for fleeing fascists, a strategic location for the expansion of fascism into South America.
This documentary explores how Madrid, under Franco's regime, became a crucial hub for numerous German Nazis and Italian fascists fleeing after World War II. They found not only protection from the regime but also a network of sympathizers who provided them with venues, businesses, and discreet meeting spaces. In this supportive environment, they could exchange ideas, plan, and coordinate their activities, leading to the famous “rat lines”.
These clandestine routes allowed fascists to escape to South America or the Middle East, where they sought to carry on their political objectives.
Madrid thus became a strategic transit point to destinations such as Buenos Aires or Cairo.
However, many remained in the city, perceiving it as not only a safe refuge but also a promising base for strengthening fascism.
