The violent bombing at Hipercor supermarket in Barcelona was one of the most devastating attacks attributed to the Basque separatist group, ETA (Euskadi Ta Askatasuna). On that fateful day, a timer-triggered explosive device detonated in the busy shopping center during peak hours, resulting in the deaths of 21 people and injuring 45 others. The attack was part of ETA's broader strategy to assert Basque nationalism and resistance to Spanish authorities, as the organization sought to gain independence for the Basque Country through a campaign of terror and political violence.

This incident marked a notable escalation in ETA's confrontational tactics, as it aimed at instilling fear within the Spanish populace and drawing attention to its cause. The choice of target—a crowded supermarket—served to maximize casualties and effectively convey the severity of the separatist group's intent. The immediate aftermath saw public outrage and calls for decisive government action against terrorism, prompting heightened security measures throughout urban areas. Spanish authorities engaged in a crackdown on ETA members, signaling a shift in the national response to separatist violence.

The attack not only shocked Spain but also reverberated across Europe, emphasizing the threats posed by domestic terrorism. This brutality further polarized public opinion regarding the Basque separatist movement. In the years following, the backlash against ETA grew, and the attack became a defining moment in Spain's struggle with terrorism, influencing public policy and counter-terrorism efforts leading into the 1990s.