Maricarmen Abascal, an 87-year-old woman from Madrid, has passed away at Gregorio Marañón Hospital. She had been hospitalized since September 23, after police removed her from her apartment, where she had lived for over 70 years. Abascal's eviction had sparked nationwide protests over Spain's housing crisis. Her condition worsened unexpectedly, and she died surrounded by relatives and loved ones.
Abascal had lived in her apartment on Calle Alcalde Sainz de Baranda in Madrid's Retiro district since 1956. Her family had signed an old protected-rent lease, which she later inherited. However, Urbagestión, the property owner, challenged the validity of her tenancy in court. Despite an initial ruling in her favor, later proceedings sided with the property owner, and the eviction went ahead. Hundreds of people had gathered outside her building to try to stop it.
Abascal's case quickly gained national attention, with protests spreading across Spain. Demonstrators gathered in Madrid's Puerta del Sol under the slogan "Not one more Maricarmen." Her eviction became part of a wider political debate over rent, evictions, and protections for vulnerable tenants. Abascal had a recognized 50% disability and was forced to leave her apartment in a wheelchair.
Just five days after the eviction, Urbagestión reached an agreement with Abascal's representatives. The deal would have given her an eight-year lease with rent capped at 30% of her net income. Abascal had accepted the agreement and was looking forward to returning home once doctors discharged her from hospital. However, she never made it back.
Abascal's death has sparked an outpouring of tributes and condolences. Her case had continued to feature prominently in demonstrations and political debate. The Spanish government had approved protections against evictions and extensions for some rental contracts in response to her case.
While no official medical cause of death has been released, reports suggest that Abascal died due to severe anxiety and exhaustion. A doctor speaking to Cadena SER said that stress can worsen existing medical conditions. Her death has highlighted the need for greater protections for vulnerable tenants in Spain.
Abascal's legacy continues to inspire debate and action on Spain's housing crisis. Her case has brought attention to the need for affordable housing and protections for long-term tenants. As Spain continues to grapple with these issues, Abascal's story serves as a powerful reminder of the human impact of housing policies.
Key points
- Maricarmen Abascal's eviction sparked nationwide protests over Spain's housing crisis.
- Abascal had lived in her apartment for over 70 years and had a recognized 50% disability.
- The Spanish government approved protections against evictions and extensions for some rental contracts in response to her case.
