Puerto del Sol is this plaza long noted for it's protests... When we were there about 4 years ago, we stayed at a Hotel Europa there on the left with the lit windows, 2nd floor, there on the corner... So while the Sunday protests and battles with the police were going on, I stood there on the little balcony and took pictures as the crowd ebbed and flowed around the Plaza... the crowd would feint a move to one side, the police would rush to contain them, only to have the crowd suddenly dash back to the less covered side.. Batons, rubber bullets at the ready, not fired, but some close calls with the batons and aggressive protestor here and there... Then as soon as the clock hit 9 PM, everyone put down all the signs, police backed off, packed up, everyone went home.. within seconds, cleanup crews were out, street-sweepers, workers, and before 10 PM, the area was once again, clean, clear, and locals, tourists back meandering around.. When I asked at the desk what they were protesting, he just laughed, well this week it was parking, next week, who knows...
Also on the same plaza, lower right, is where my wife's wallet was picked, a sling bag, zipped, I was just behind, watching, but a little bump while waiting for a light, gone, I spotted the unzipped pocket, but there was nobody near by then... Nothing of importance, maybe €12 and a grocer discount card... But a reminder to be aware...
A shame to see their economy faltering, so many positives, a beautiful, vibrant nation...
weco
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