Removal of trees in Cibeles generates outrage
The Cibeles square, one of the most emblematic points in Madrid, has become the epicentre of a controversy following the City Council's decision to remove six trees to set up the stage that will host the mass of Pope Leo XIV next Sunday, June 7. This action has sparked strong rejection among opposition groups and environmental defenders, who believe the measure is unnecessary and harmful.
The critical moment occurred during the municipal Plenary held this Tuesday, where José Luis Nieto, a councillor from the Más Madrid party, questioned Mayor José Luis Martínez-Almeida and the delegate for Urbanism and the Environment, Borja Carabante. Nieto demanded explanations as to why the trees in front of CentroCentro were considered an obstacle to welcoming the Pope. The lack of response from the municipal government during the session only fueled the flames of protest further.
Despite the criticism, municipal sources have clarified that this is not an indiscriminate felling. According to their version, the trees have been relocated to nurseries with the promise of being replanted after the papal visit, provided that weather conditions allow. Otherwise, it would take place in autumn. However, this explanation has not convinced many citizens or political representatives who see this action as a direct attack on the urban natural heritage.
Criticism has intensified especially due to the high temperatures that Madrid is experiencing these days. Más Madrid has denounced on its social media that “in the midst of a heatwave, Almeida is removing trees to set up a stage,” emphasising that any event seems to be a valid excuse to eliminate shade in the city. This situation puts even more pressure on a government already criticised for its environmental management.
The religious event is expected to attract around one and a half million people, which the City Council justifies as the need for the stage setup. However, many citizens question whether it is really necessary to sacrifice natural elements for temporary logistical reasons. The removal also included some previously installed streetlights in the square.
Despite the current discontent, the City Council has hinted at plans to increase the tree cover in Cibeles after the event. Nevertheless, this remains a promise amid immediate concerns about the environmental and aesthetic impact that these decisions are generating among Madrileños.
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