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Maricarmen Abascal dies, symbol of the housing crisis in Spain

Maricarmen Abascal, an 87-year-old woman who became a symbol of the housing struggle in Spain, has died following health complications at the Gregorio Marañón Hospital.

7 October 2026Tagblick Newsdesk

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Archive photo: Maricarmen Abascal dies, symbol of the housing crisis in Spain — Archive photoPhoto: unknown author · Wikimedia Commons · Public domain

Maricarmen Abascal, an 87-year-old woman, passed away this Wednesday at the Gregorio Marañón Hospital in Madrid. She had been hospitalized since September 23, the day she was evicted from her home in the Retiro neighborhood, a case that became emblematic in the fight against the housing crisis in Spain.

Maricarmen's eviction occurred after a significant increase in her rent, which led her to be unable to pay her rent. Since then, her case has sparked protests in several cities, including Madrid, with thousands of people participating in demonstrations in support of her cause and calling for changes in housing policies.

Maricarmen lived in the same house for over seventy years, and her situation sparked a wave of solidarity and activism from tenant groups and housing rights advocates. Her case not only highlighted the challenges faced by many Spaniards but also culminated in the early calling of elections in response to social discontent.

According to the Tenants' Union, Maricarmen became the face of the housing struggle in Spain, symbolizing the harsh reality faced by many families encountering forced evictions. Many voices have risen in her defense, calling for fairer and more accessible policies.

Following her hospitalization, it was reported that Maricarmen did not have the opportunity to benefit from an agreement that would allow her return to her home, which intensified protests from supporters and activists. Her situation represents a standout case within a broader context of housing and social crises in many regions of Spain.

The impact of Maricarmen's case continues to resonate, highlighting the difficulties many face regarding access to safe and affordable housing. Her death is felt as a significant loss among tenant rights advocates and those fighting against the effects of the housing crisis.

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