Ever wondered about the man immortalized in bronze before you? This is the Monumento al Teniente General Manuel Cassola. It stands as a tribute to a remarkable Spanish general and politician.
Manuel Cassola y Fernández was born in Hellín in 1838. He rose through the ranks to become a Lieutenant General. He even served as Minister of War.
The Monumento al Teniente General Manuel Cassola was erected in his honor. His admirers in the army funded it. The renowned sculptor Mariano Benlliure created the statue. It was cast in bronze in Rome.
Initially, the Monumento al Teniente General Manuel Cassola was placed in the gardens of Ferraz in 1892. These gardens preceded the Parque del Oeste. They were in front of the former Cuartel de la Montaña. In 1929, it was moved to the Plaza de Mariano de Cavia. Finally, in 1967, it found its current home. It overlooks the Paseo de Moret near the Ministry of Air.
Notice the statue’s quality. Benlliure’s skill is evident in the draping of the uniform. The gesture and contained movement are masterfully captured. The pedestal is proportionate to the statue and made of granite and limestone.
Look closely at the inscriptions. The front reads “Al Teniente General don Manuel Cassola, 1892”. The right side states that the army should fear justice and not seek favor. The left side mentions Cassola’s army bill presented in Congress in 1887. The upper back proclaims “TODO POR LA PATRIA, TODO POR EL EJÉRCITO”. The lower back details Cassola’s life. It mentions his birth in Hellín and his service in various campaigns. It notes his role as minister and his army reform proposal. It also acknowledges Benlliure as the artist. The monument was originally in the gardens of Ferraz.
Manuel Cassola had a distinguished career. He participated in campaigns in Mexico and Santo Domingo. He also fought in the Carlist Wars. He was involved in the Cantonal rebellion and the Cuban campaigns. As Minister of War, he proposed mandatory military service. However, the proposal was rejected. He resigned from his position in 1888.
The Monumento al Teniente General Manuel Cassola captures him in uniform. He stands ready to move forward. Benlliure signed his name on the right side of the statue. The inscription “Fond. Crescenzi Roma” is on the left.
The Monumento al Teniente General Manuel Cassola stands as a reminder of a man dedicated to his country. He was a military leader and reformer. He left a lasting mark on Spain. As you leave, consider the weight of history embodied in this statue. It is a tribute to service, reform, and a life dedicated to Spain.