Maria del Carmen Abascal, known as "Maricarmen," passed away on October 7, 2026, at the age of 87, in a Madrid hospital. Her death has sparked widespread outrage and renewed calls for housing reform in Spain. Abascal had been a tenant in a building in the Retiro neighborhood for over 70 years. Her struggles with her landlord, Urbagestion, had become a rallying cry for tenants' rights activists.
Abascal's troubles began in 2018 when Urbagestion purchased the building and sought to raise her rent from approximately €500 to €2,650 per month. This drastic increase far exceeded her monthly pension of around €1,400. Despite her efforts to negotiate, Abascal was eventually evicted on September 23, after a lengthy and contentious court battle. Her eviction was carried out with a significant police presence, amid widespread protests.
Abascal's health was severely impacted by the ordeal. She was removed from her apartment on a stretcher due to a 50% disability and mobility issues. She was immediately hospitalized in a state of extreme exhaustion. The decision to evict her was widely criticized, with many arguing that it was inhumane and highlighted the need for greater protections for vulnerable tenants.
In the aftermath of her eviction, Abascal's case gained national attention. The tenants' union announced that an agreement had been reached with Urbagestion, mediated by the Madrid city council, which would have allowed her to return to her home at a rent not exceeding 30% of her income for eight years. However, this agreement came too late to help Abascal.
Abascal's death has been seen as a tragic symbol of the struggles faced by many tenants in Spain. Her case has galvanized calls for changes to the country's housing laws to prevent similar situations in the future. Protesters have taken to the streets, with demonstrations and a sit-in held in Madrid's Puerta del Sol.
The Spanish government has faced criticism for its handling of the housing crisis. Many argue that current laws favor landlords and leave tenants vulnerable to exploitation. Abascal's case has highlighted the need for greater protections and support for tenants, particularly the elderly and those with disabilities.
As the nation mourns Abascal's passing, her legacy is likely to continue to inspire advocacy for housing reform. Her story has shed light on the human cost of Spain's housing crisis and the need for a more compassionate and equitable approach to housing policy.
Key points
- The eviction of 87-year-old Maria del Carmen Abascal has sparked national outrage over Spain's housing crisis.
- Abascal's struggles with her landlord, Urbagestion, had become a rallying cry for tenants' rights activists.
- Her death has galvanized calls for changes to Spain's housing laws to prevent similar situations in the future.
