Irreligion in Spain

Irreligion in Spain is a phenomenon that has existed since at least the 17th century. Secularism became relatively popular among rich people (although the majority of the lower classes were still very religious) in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, often associated with anti-clericalism and progressive, republican, anarchist or socialist movements.

Religious self-definition in Spain (CIS survey; sample size: 3,935; February 2023)

Practicing Catholic (18.5%)

Non-Practicing Catholic (37.5%)

Believer in another religion (2.7%)

Agnostic (12.6%)

Indifferent/Non-believer (12.3%)

Atheist (14.9%)

Did not answer (1.5%)

During the Second Spanish Republic (1931–1936) Spain became a secular state, placing limitations on the activity of the Catholic Church and expelling the church from education. During the Spanish Civil War irreligious people were repressed by the Francoist side, while religion was largely persecuted among the republicans.

During the Francoist Spain period (1939–1975) irreligion was not tolerated, following the national-catholic ideology of the regime; Spanish citizens had to be Catholic by law, though this changed after the Second Vatican Council. Irreligious people could not be public workers or express their thoughts openly.

After the Spanish democratic transition (1975–1982), restrictions on irreligion were lifted. In the last decades religious practice has fallen dramatically and irreligion has grown in popularity.

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