Hidden in plain sight on the Toledo Bridge, the Nido de ametralladora whispers stories of Madrid’s resilience. These machine gun nests, built into the bridge’s towers near the Glorieta de las Pirámides, aren’t immediately obvious. They’re subtle scars on the 18th-century granite, a reminder of the Spanish Civil War. The Nido de ametralladora were built during the Battle of Madrid, between November 1936 and April 1939. The Republican Army’s fortification battalions constructed them to defend the bridge and prevent Nationalist troops from crossing the river. General Miaja, in a meeting on December 12, 1936, declared 18,000 men were fortifying Madrid. The Nido de ametralladora played a crucial role in this defense. Today, only the two embrasures of each nest are visible. They were created by removing granite blocks, positioned just below the fountains designed by Ribera. These nests typically housed automatic weapons due to their strategic location and high firing capacity. Access was likely from the top of the bridge. However, any trace of these entrances is now concealed. Photographs by Albert Louis Deschamps, a French reporter covering the war, offer glimpses of the bridge after Madrid fell in April 1939. Comparing these photos to current views reveals a significant elevation change due to the construction of the M-30 ring road. Remarkably, the embrasures of the Nido de ametralladora remain. They stand as silent witnesses to the three years of conflict in Madrid. Although they’re now sealed, they serve as a powerful reminder of the city’s struggle. The Nido de ametralladora on Toledo Bridge offer a poignant glimpse into a turbulent past, hidden within a beautiful landmark.
Центральный дом работников искусств
Step through the grand wooden doors of the Central House of the Workers of Art, and you’ll be transported to