Mass Eviction Looms Over Embattled Barcelona Housing Block
El Salto
- A housing complex at 74 Llenguadoc Street in Barcelona's Sant Andreu district faces a looming mass eviction, threatening to displace over 50 residents.
- The residents, a diverse group including migrant families, single mothers, and political refugees, have formed a support network to survive in a hostile property market.
Speculation and Resistance
- Originally owned by a baker's union, the property was purchased by Reale Seguros, which attempted to clear the building for speculative profit, leading to years of conflict.
- Activists began occupying vacant units in 2017, and the building became a hub for social resistance, with more families moving in during 2021 and 2022.
- In April 2025, the building was sold to Thunder Optical Minur SL, controlled by César Germán Ariza; subsequently, residents reported receiving threats and facing physical intimidation from masked individuals.
Administrative Gaps and Institutional Pressure
- Residents report a lack of support from municipal social services, claiming they are denied aid because they do not fit the narrow definition of a 'deserving victim.'
- Occupants have attempted to negotiate for social rent or municipal acquisition of the building, but these requests have been ignored by local authorities.
- Major education unions, including USTEC·STEs and CGT, have joined the campaign against the eviction, noting that the displacement would impact over a dozen school-aged children.
- Judicial proceedings have resulted in three separate eviction orders, all slated for enforcement on October 7, with residents and local allies planning a final stand.