The Madrid train bombings, also known as the 11-M bombings, were a series of coordinated terrorist attacks that occurred in Madrid, Spain, on March 11, 2004. The attacks Targeted commuter trains during the morning rush hour, killing and injuring hundreds of people.
The Attacks
On the morning of March 11, 2004, ten bombs exploded on four different commuter trains in Madrid. The bombs were hidden in backpacks and placed on trains that were traveling to Atocha Station in central Madrid.
The first bomb exploded at 7:37 a.m., followed by three more within seconds. Seven more bombs exploded over the next few minutes.
The Aftermath
The explosions caused widespread panic and chaos as commuters tried to escape the train cars. In total, 191 people were killed and over 2,000 were injured in the attacks. Many of those who were injured suffered life-changing injuries such as amputations and severe burns.
The Investigation
Within days of the attacks, Spanish police had linked them to an Islamic extremist group known as Al-Qaeda. Several suspects were arrested and charged with involvement in the bombings. In April 2007, twenty-one people were found guilty for their role in planning and executing the attacks.
The Memorial
In memory of those who lost their lives in the Madrid train bombings, a memorial was erected at Atocha Station. The memorial consists of an olive tree garden with a circular glass enclosure that contains a book with the names of all those who died in the attacks.
Conclusion
The Madrid train bombings were one of Europe’s deadliest terrorist attacks and left an indelible mark on Spanish society. Nearly two decades later, they serve as a reminder that terrorism can strike anywhere at any time with devastating consequences for those affected by it.