Housing crisis protesters loot stores and set bins ablaze as they clash with riot police in Spain

Detailed summary

Thousands took to the streets of Spain today for the country's first general strike in 14 years in a nationwide protest over soaring rents and real estate prices.

Published: 21:44 GMT, 11 November 2026 | Updated: 21:49 GMT, 11 November 2026

Protests turned ugly in Spain as housing activists started to smash storefronts, set bins on fire and launch fireworks at police who arrived in riot gear and armored vans.

Tens of thousands took to the streets earlier today for the country's first general strike in 14 years in a nationwide protest over soaring rents and real estate prices across Spain.

Millions of Spanish workers shut down businesses and public transportation for the walkout under the slogan 'Salaries. Housing. Prices.'

After mostly peaceful marches across the country, riots began to break out in Barcelona and Madrid, as protestors were seen smashing storefronts in the cities, while some launched fireworks at police officers.

Others lit small bonfires in front of stores and set bins alight as protestors continue to clash with riot police, with officers forced to use pepper spray against the crowds

Before the clashes late in the day, police had already made 39 arrests across Spain for strike-related incidents.

The anger reached a boiling point following the eviction of pensioner Maricarmen Abascal, 87, on September 23.

Ms Abascal after she was removed from the Madrid flat she had called home for more than 70 years when she was reportedly unable to afford a steep rent increase.

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