The illegal rave of La Granja, in Cáceres, already brings together more than 3,000 people

A large illegal rave has gathered more than 3,000 people near the village of La Granja in Cáceres, Spain. The event, which took place in a natural pool area, attracted attendees from several countries including France. Local authorities have deployed security forces to manage the situation, with the Guardia Civil maintaining active patrols to ensure public safety and prevent traffic disruptions. The gathering began earlier in the day and continued into the evening, drawing increasing numbers of participants. As the number of attendees grew, so did concerns over safety and infrastructure. The area, located in the northern part of Cáceres province between the Trasierra mountains and the Ambroz river, became congested with vehicles, leading to interruptions in nearby roads. In response, the Guardia Civil implemented measures to control access, allowing entry only on foot and prohibiting vehicle entry to reduce risks to road users. Authorities have expressed concern over the potential dangers posed by the large crowd. The mayor of La Granja, Óscar Martín, stated that the eviction of the event would be counterproductive due to safety reasons. He emphasized that while the municipality has regulations against unauthorized camping, he believes the main issue is the risk of fire caused by the high concentration of people and activities in the area. Martín noted that similar gatherings, known as 'raves,' occurred approximately 15 to 20 years ago, though they were held near a reservoir rather than the current location. This time, however, the scale and proximity to residential areas have raised new challenges. The mayor has taken steps to inform the Guardia Civil about local ordinances and has urged attendees to leave the area voluntarily. Local residents and nearby communities have been affected by the event’s presence. With around 1,000 vehicles parked in the vicinity, there has been a noticeable impact on daily life and mobility. The Guardia Civil has worked to maintain order and prevent further complications, ensuring that both the public and emergency services can operate safely. As the event continues, officials remain vigilant. They continue monitoring the situation and preparing for possible interventions should conditions worsen. The mayor has reiterated his belief that the best course of action is for participants to disperse on their own, minimizing the need for enforcement actions that could escalate tensions. The situation highlights the ongoing challenge of managing large-scale gatherings in rural areas where legal frameworks may not fully address emerging social dynamics.