Abstract
The objective of the following article is to explore the emerging agenda of investigation in the field of urban security in relation to contemporary threats. In line with a double interpretation of this concept, the first part is focused on the growing militarization of urbanized spaces.
For this purpose, it introduces a number of concepts used by urban geographers and political scientists whose fundamentally critical approach towards State authorities has dominated the debate. The second part adopts a more pragmatic outlook, focusing on security of a city as such; its elements and functions that are vulnerable to natural forces or human activity.
In order to demonstrate the relevance of this topic for the Spanish society, a brief analysis of the principal risks and threats recognized by recent Spanish strategic documents is offered.