Spain 'shuts off' areas to UK tourists 'unless you can prove you were born here'

Seville will begin to charge UK tourists to visit its neo-Moorish square to limit numbers. The European Union city has acted to protect ornate Plaza de España, used as a location for Star Wars’ Phantom Menace film back in 1999, starring Natalie Portman.

José Luis Sanz, the mayor, stated on Wednesday that he has already “decided to enclose” the space of the monumental Plaza de Espana and charge “between three and four euros”. Mr Sanz said: "I want to charge a fee to those who visit the square space. The building is another story”.

“I see it as a good thing that this type of activity is organised in the Plaza de Espana”, he said, stressing that the festival is “under the inspection of the Town Planning technicians”. Those who can prove that they live in the city or were born in the province - and can prove it - won't be asked to pay the new fee.

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Alongside the surveillance service, the plan is also to open a permanent restoration school or workshop. “We are planning to close the Plaza de España and charge tourists to finance its conservation and ensure its safety,” he said. Although Sanz made clear that local people would still have free access, many X users, including those from Seville, were quick to criticise the plan.

“A tourism tax for ALL visitors provokes less debate and generates more income. Listen to the people, not the hoteliers,” wrote one user. Another added: “What people want from you is a tourism tax and general regulation of mass tourism which is destroying our city.”

With more than 3 million tourists a year and a population of 700,000, Seville is the third most visited city in Spain, which in turn is one of the world’s most visited countries, with tourism representing 13% of GDP.