Vandals desecrated several Jewish graves at a cemetery in Barcelona over the weekend, prompting condemnation from Jewish groups and political leaders and triggering a police investigation into what has been described as an antisemitic act.

Incident reported at Les Corts graveyard

Spanish police confirmed on Sunday that graves in the Jewish section of Les Corts Cemetery were defaced. A spokesperson for the Catalan police said an investigation has been opened, though authorities did not specify the exact number of graves affected.

However, Federation of Jewish Communities of Spain (FCJE) told AFP that more than 20 graves were desecrated during the incident, which occurred on Saturday.

Jewish groups condemn ‘despicable act’

In a statement, the FCJE strongly condemned the vandalism, calling it a “despicable antisemitic act” and urging authorities to act decisively against rising hatred. The organisation warned that antisemitism in Spain was escalating from rhetoric to physical attacks.

The FCJE also linked the incident to a controversial online map — since taken down — created by pro-Palestinian activists that identified Jewish or Israeli-linked businesses and locations in Barcelona.

Political leaders respond

Barcelona Mayor Jaume Collboni denounced the desecration on social media, saying authorities were working to identify those responsible. “Hate has no place in a pluralistic and respectful Barcelona,” he said.

The incident has intensified concerns over communal safety amid heightened tensions linked to the Israel–Gaza conflict.

Rising tensions amid global conflict

Spain has witnessed strong pro-Palestinian protests since Israel’s military offensive in Gaza began following the Hamas attacks of October 7, 2023. Demonstrations, cultural boycotts and political actions related to the conflict have become frequent across the country.

According to the FCJE, Spain’s Jewish community numbers around 70,000 people. Community leaders have called for increased protection and vigilance to prevent further acts of hatred.

Authorities said investigations are ongoing and assured that those responsible would be held accountable.