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On 20 November 1975, dictator Francisco Franco died. This marked the beginning of a process of democratisation in Spain which, according to some, has not yet been fully completed. This year marks the 50th anniversary of the beginning of that transition. This short exhibition takes you through some of the most defining moments of this turbulent period – a time of hope, but also of crises and the real danger of regression. The Netherlands and Europe played an important, sometimes decisive role in this. 

‘Franco died in bed. The dictatorship died in the streets,’ is how Nicolás Sartorius – historian and key figure in the transition period – summed up the crucial role of the Spanish people in bringing about democracy. Because the future is built on the memory of the past, we invite you to also reflect on the Spain of today. What is the state of democracy today, and how aware are we of its fragility and value?