What is «Manual d’autodefensa contra l’especulació»
The book «Manual d’autodefensa contra l’especulació» by María Alandes (Editorial Bromera) analyses touristification, gentrification, and neighbourhood displacement from a critical and practical perspective. It combines personal narrative with concrete tools to detect abuses—such as unjustified rent hikes or changes in land use—and turn them into collective action. The author, according to sources like her profile on LaMataObras, structures the text as an accessible manual, with clear steps to defend housing and neighbourhoods.
Who is presenting the book
The talk is led by María Alandes, author of the manual and a member of projects linked to territorial defence, such as LaMataObras. The publisher Bromera, specialising in essays and divulgation in Valencian, supports the publication, which has been available for pre-order since October 2026 according to its Instagram account. The event is free and open to all audiences, with no prior registration required.
Context of the event
The Centre Cultural Escorxador, located in the Cabanyal-Canyamelar neighbourhood, hosts activities that reflect the memories and conflicts of the maritime district. While its official 2026 agenda does not explicitly mention this manual, the space regularly features talks on urban rights and community participation, aligning with the book’s theme. The building, a former slaughterhouse rehabilitated in 1910, is a symbol of reclaiming spaces for the community.
