The pro-Palestine encampment near Plaça de la Carbonera at Drassanes has expanded to 300 people sleeping in 80 tents, organisers say. The camp has taken over pier 18A leading to the World Trade Center, with tourists, workers and residents watching in surprise as the protest grows.
Protesters woke early on Saturday around 8am, with camping stoves brewing coffee between the tents. Some brushed their teeth at the public fountain whilst tourists looked on. Judit Piñol, spokesperson for the Global Movement to Gaza support group, explained: “Two days ago we were about 100 people and today we’re 300, with around 80 tents.”
Organisers expect the numbers to double to 600 people after Saturday’s mass demonstration, which is due to finish at La Carbonera. The area has become the centre of Barcelona’s Israel protests. Campers have received donations of camping equipment to accommodate new arrivals and have organised food supplies.
Leaders are going tent to tent reminding people to keep at least 15 people at the camp during demonstrations to prevent theft or surprise police interventions. The protesters say they’re thrilled with the response from Barcelona and Catalan society, describing “very intense moments with a massive and super positive response from people”.
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