Where Do Most Roma (Gitanos) Live in Europe? Spain Leads

Spain hosts the largest Roma (Gitano) population in Europe, estimated at 750,000–1,200,000 people. The Roma have lived in Spain since at least the 15th century, maintaining a distinct cultural identity (language: Caló; music: flamenco roots; social structures).

Geographic Concentration

• Andalusia: ~40% of Spanish Roma (Seville, Granada, Córdoba, Almería)
• Catalonia: ~15% (Barcelona metro, Girona)
• Madrid Community: ~15% (capital & suburbs)
• Valencia Region: ~10%
• Canary Islands: Significant historic communities
• Other regions: Murcia, Extremadura, Castilla-La Mancha, Basque Country

Context

• Spain's Roma are predominantly settled (not nomadic) for centuries.
• Integration challenges persist: education gaps, housing segregation, employment discrimination.
• 2010–2020 National Roma Integration Strategies improved school enrollment and housing, but poverty rates remain 3× national average.
• Romani language (Caló) is recognized but endangered; revitalization efforts underway.

Other Countries with Large Roma Populations

Romania (~1.8M), Bulgaria (~750K), Hungary (~750K), Slovakia (~400K), France (~400K), Italy (~180K)—but Spain's Gitano community is the largest in Western Europe and culturally distinct.