Spanish shepherds defend ancient herding rights

Shepherds from across the world joined their Spanish colleagues to lead flocks of sheep through the streets of Madrid today in defence of ancient grazing routes threatened by urban sprawl and man-made frontiers.

While every year Spanish herdsmen protest their rights by herding hundreds of sheep along the capital’s exclusive, tree-lined boulevards and luxury store-filled avenues, this year they were joined by colourfully attired shepherds from 32 countries who had been taking part in a world gathering of nomad and transhumance shepherds.