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Barcelona Residents Protest Against Mass Tourism with Water Guns and Smoke Bombs
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Thousands of Barcelona residents took to the streets armed with water guns and smoke bombs on Sunday, June 15, 2025, to protest against the impacts of mass tourism on their city. Organized by neighborhood associations concerned about the “shrink of tourism,” the exhibition highlighted growing frustrations over rising living costs and the displacement of local communities.
Demonstrators Take Aim at Mass Tourism
The protest began at Jardinets de Grácia, where organizers distributed water guns, encouraging participants to engage in a “pacifist but provocative” display. Daniel Pardo, representing the neighborhood associations, humorously suggested protesters swap sunscreen for water guns to cool off and make their voices heard. This followed similar demonstrations where tourists were sprayed with water, drawing international attention.
Did You Know? BarcelonaS tourism sector contributes approximately 12% to the city’s GDP, but the benefits are not always evenly distributed [[1]].
The march proceeded peacefully thru the city centre towards the Sagrada Familia. Though, tensions rose when an orange smoke bomb was detonated outside a hotel with over 150 rooms, drawing applause from the crowd.The Sagrada familia is one of the most visited monuments in Barcelona [[1]].
Voices of Discontent: Personal Stories from barcelona Residents
Alba Redondo, a 37-year-old resident of P
