12 Oct 2018 | 01:28 AM UTC
Spain: National Day demonstrations in Madrid and Barcelona Oct. 12
National Day demonstrations planned in Madrid and Barcelona October 12; heightened security measures and road closures expected
Event
Demonstrations in observance of Spanish National Day are planned in Madrid and Barcelona on Friday, October 12. In Madrid, related gatherings will be held from 11:00 (local time). A flag-raising ceremony will reportedly be held at Plaza de Lima at 11:00. A parade will then begin from Plaza de Cuzco and proceed along Paseo de la Castellana to Plaza de San Juan de la Cruz; a demonstration will also be held at Plaza de Castilla. Road closures will be in effect in the capital from 07:30. In Barcelona, a march will run from 10:00 to 15:00 along Passeig de Gràcia to Plaça d'Espanya.
Catalan-separatist counterdemonstrators may organize rival gatherings in Barcelona on Friday. A heightened security presence and localized traffic disruptions are to be expected near the demonstration sites and due to road closures.
Context
The Fiesta Nacional de España is held annually on October 12 and commemorates the historical arrival of Christopher Columbus to the Americas.
Advice
Individuals in Spain, and particularly those in Madrid and Barcelona, are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid all demonstrations as a precaution, prepare for traffic disruptions, and adhere to any instructions issued by the local authorities.
