3,000 euro fine for vulgar souvenirs. Spanish resort goes to war on kitsch.

Last year, Barcelona decided to crack down on offensive and kitschy souvenirs. Benidorm followed suit, preventing local vendors from displaying vulgar items in their shops. Those who violate the ban risk fines of up to €3,000.

Benidorm , located in the province of Alicante on Spain's east coast, is famous not only for its impressive number of skyscrapers, but also for its sandy beaches. Numerous restaurants, clubs, and bars have sprung up around the most popular beach, Playa de Levante , making it an ideal destination for those planning a fun-filled vacation. Numerous souvenir shops also dot the landscape.

Local authorities have recently become interested in their product range. Besides the typical magnets, mugs, canvas bags, and T-shirts, there are also items that could offend someone. These include souvenirs depicting intimate body parts or vulgar slogans.

€3,000 fine for displaying vulgar souvenirs in shops in Benidorm, Spain. License: Dmitrii E. / Unsplash

Javier Jordá, Commercial Director at Benidorm City Hall, was quoted by Time Out as explaining that the city council wants to ensure that minors and vulnerable people are not exposed to offensive messages in public spaces. He further clarified that the council has no intention of banning the sale of risqué souvenirs. The city wants them to be inconspicuous.

Any seller who displays inappropriate souvenirs outside their shop or in shop windows will be fined up to €3,000, or over PLN 12,000.