Elderly woman’s eviction sets off huge public outcry in Madrid

September 28, 2026 | 2:56pm

Dozens of housing protesters remain camped out in Madrid's Puerta del Sol square following a massive weekend march demanding government action on Spain's housing crisis. The demonstrations were sparked by the controversial September 23 eviction of 87-year-old Maricarmen Abascal from her home of 70 years. Organizers are pushing for structural changes, including a freeze on rental prices, curbs on short-term rentals, and permanent protections against evictions.