Marga Aguilar, a long-time resident of the historic La Papallona building in Barcelona, recently received an eviction notice, shocking her after over three decades of tenancy. The building was sold to New Amsterdam Developers, a Dutch investment fund that plans to transform the property into a coliving space aimed at young professionals, charging as much as 1,500 euros per room. This decision has already led to the displacement of seven other families in the building, stirring tensions around housing rights and urban development in Barcelona.

The push for high-cost coliving spaces reflects a growing trend in many urban areas, where affordable housing is increasingly limited. Residents like Aguilar argue that this shift is not just about their individual evictions but a broader movement affecting communities, as families are pushed out in favor of lucrative investments. They claim the transformation threatens the social fabric of neighborhoods and exacerbates the ongoing housing crisis in the city, making it harder for families to secure affordable living spaces.

As Aguilar prepares for trial, the case symbolizes the clash between historical community rights and modern real estate pressures. The response from local authorities and organized residents will be closely observed, as they navigate the challenges of maintaining tradition and affordability amidst the relentless march of development in cities like Barcelona. This unfolding story highlights vital discussions about housing policy and the future of urban living in Spain, resonating with similar movements across Europe.