Spain Protests Erupt After 87-Year-Old Evicted Woman Dies

Massive demonstrations swept through several Spanish cities, drawing tens of thousands of participants to honor Maricarmen Abascal, an 87-year-old retiree who passed away just two weeks after being forced out of her home. The gatherings served as a tribute to the elderly woman whose eviction ignited widespread anger over the country’s housing crisis.

Marches Honor Deceased Tenant

In the capital, Madrid, crowds assembled on Thursday evening at Puerta del Sol square before marching toward Abascal’s former residence in the Retiro district. Police estimated that at least 20,000 people joined the demonstration, while similar protest movements extended to other urban centers across the nation.

Participants chanted slogans demanding an end to real estate speculation, including "Speculators out of our neighborhoods!" and "We are all Maricarmen!". Attendees lit candles and placed flowers outside her previous apartment, leaving messages of condolence to commemorate her memory.

Eviction Preceded Sudden Death

Abascal had been removed from the apartment she inhabited for more than 70 years during a police operation conducted approximately two weeks prior. Her sudden death on Wednesday triggered a wave of outrage, prompting organizers to coordinate protests throughout the country.

These developments occurred despite a brief period before her passing when an agreement was reached that would have allowed her to return to her flat. However, she died before she could utilize this arrangement to go back home.

Strike Planned For November

Since her death, protesters have established encampments in Madrid and various other regions. Additionally, authorities announced plans for a general strike scheduled for November 11 to demand access to affordable housing.