Animal rights groups rally in Palma demanding electric horse-drawn carriages

A confrontation captured on social media, in which a horse-drawn carriage driver reportedly called a German tourist a Nazi and made vulgar remarks, has ignited a backlash from Palma’s animal-rights activists. The incident prompted the local mobility office to launch an investigation to determine the facts and identify any disciplinary measures. Protesters, organized by groups such as Satya Animal and Progreso en Verde, will gather in front of Palma Cathedral on Saturday to demand the abolition of horse-drawn calesas and the introduction of electric carriages.

They also seek a binding timetable to remove all horses from tourist services and ensure their relocation to sanctuaries. The city had previously been selected for a pilot electric-carriage program in 2022, but the plan stalled due to technical and industry opposition. Activists plan weekly demonstrations throughout September to keep pressure on the municipal council.