Barcelona's streets turned into a sea of protest on Saturday as thousands took to the city centre to voice their anger against mass tourism's impact on their daily lives. The demonstration, organised by more than 100 local groups, saw protesters wielding signs reading "Tourists go home" and "Barcelona is not for sale" as they marched past iconic landmarks.
The boiling point of local frustration
Chanting slogans against the tourism industry, the crowd made their way to City Hall, where tensions escalated slightly as some protesters threw objects at police officers. Authorities reported four arrests following minor altercations.
"We can't take it anymore," said Marta Sánchez, a 34-year-old teacher participating in the protest. "My rent has doubled in five years, and my neighbourhood feels like a theme park. We're losing our city."
Tourism's double-edged sword
Barcelona welcomed over 12 million visitors last year, making tourism a vital but controversial part of the local economy. While the industry provides jobs, residents increasingly blame it for:
- Skyrocketing housing prices
- Overcrowded public spaces
- Noise pollution and antisocial behaviour
- Displacement of local businesses
The protest comes as Barcelona's leftist mayor, Jaume Collboni, prepares to implement measures including eliminating all tourist apartment licenses by 2028 - a move that has drawn both praise and criticism.
A growing movement across Spain
Barcelona isn't alone in its anti-tourism sentiment. Similar demonstrations have erupted in:
- Málaga
- Palma de Mallorca
- San Sebastián
- The Canary Islands
This growing movement reflects a national reckoning about Spain's reliance on tourism, which accounts for about 12% of GDP. With summer season in full swing, tensions between visitors and residents appear to be reaching a tipping point.
As police monitored the largely peaceful protest, one banner summed up the mood: "We don't hate tourists - we hate the system that puts profits before people." The coming months will test whether Barcelona can find a sustainable balance between welcoming visitors and preserving its soul.
