Construction of private bunkers in Spain rises 200% as fears of war in Europe grow

Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine and rising geopolitical tensions have sparked an increase in interest in survivalism in Spain.

The private construction of bunkers has risen by 200% since Moscow's war started in early 2022, according to industry companies. This trend is spreading across Europe, with Germany, France, and the Baltic countries being the best prepared.

Many families are looking for high-security shelters. Euronews gained access to one that can withstand nuclear radiation, featuring anti-radiation showers, concrete and steel walls, and armoured doors. The owner installed it due to fears of an armed conflict in Europe.

This bunker was developed by VIP Bunker, with its manager, Fernando Díaz, describing it as an "apartment with high security, where one could live for months," equipped with 1,000 litres of drinking water and various backup power systems.

However, with an average cost of €150,000 these shelters are a luxury few can afford.

This has led some citizens to create safe spaces in their homes, storing non-perishable food. Meanwhile, the European Union has urged citizens to prepare 72-hour survival kits and called on governments to improve civilian-military cooperation.

European leaders have stressed the need for being prepared.

"We need to think big because the threats are greater," said European Commissioner for Crisis Management Hadja Lahbib.

Meanwhile Roxana Minzatu, Commissioner for Preparedness, added, "The pandemic showed that acting together, in solidarity, is crucial. It makes us stronger."

Lieutenant Colonel Manolo Cámara, author of the book "Prepárate" (Get Ready), has been training civilians in survival for years and has noticed a shift.

"There wasn’t much interest before. With the possible