Two days ago, Pope Benedict XVI arrived in Madrid to reassure thousands of young Catholics from all over the world that their God was still relevant. Around 150 secular and social organisations, helped by the people of the “Indignados” movement, marched to protest against the chafing opulence of Ratzinger’s visit with the slogan “De mis impuestos, al Papa cero” [Not a euro from my taxes for the Pope]. Esperanza Aguirre, president of the Comunidad de Madrid, called them “intolerant agitators”, the archbishop of Toledo called them “ignorants”, and a spokesperson for the Spanish Episcopal Conference accused them of being “social parasites”.

The march itself took place in a reassuringly blasphemous party atmosphere. Beer sellers made huge profits. Everything was going peacefully until the evening, when both sides – protesters and Catholic pilgrims – eventually faced each other at the central Plaza del Sol. Pilgrims chanted “I’m addicted to Benedict,” and the protesters responded with yells of “Pederast!”. Not long after 10PM, the police decided to escort the pilgrims out of the square and charge at them with their nightsticks. In recent times, police charges have become one of the most entertaining features of Madrid nightlife.

Photos: César López Lumbreras.