More than 150 protesting teachers blocked access to the Sagrada Família in Barcelona on Monday morning, 18 May 2026, holding a sit-in in front of the Nativity façade.
The action prevented the Gaudí basilica from opening its doors at 9am as scheduled. Visitors who had purchased tickets for the morning will receive refunds, according to officials.
The protest started at 8am with a sit-in, followed by a human chain formed with school tables and chairs, recreating a classroom scene. This demonstration is part of a day of education strikes in the Barcelona area, marking the start of a week of industrial action across the sector.
Police presence and confiscated items
Catalan police deployed vans and anti-riot agents around the protest site and along parts of the temple's perimeter. Police officers registered and identified at least one protester, confiscating pyrotechnic material he was carrying.
Demonstrators chanted slogans against the government's educational policy and specifically targeted the Minister of Education, Esther Niubó, throughout the morning. They also criticised over-tourism, arguing that too many public resources are allocated to attracting visitors while public services, including education, are deteriorating.
