Catalan separatists had earlier blocked roads and clashed with police as Spanish ministers held a cabinet meeting in the regional capital.

Separatists claim intimidation and provocation from police who are engaged in a pay dispute with Madrid.

Spain’s State Attorney dropped a call for rebellion charges to be brought against jailed Catalan independence leaders on Friday. It says it would seek lesser charges of sedition and misappropriation of funds.

Catalan independence and European values: Uncut with Carles Puigdemont

Riot police charged in to break up a demonstration in front of Catalonia's regional parliament and the headquarters of the Spanish national police in Barcelona on Monday, after thousands marched in Barcelona to mark the first anniversary of an ill-fated independence referendum to split from Spain.

Police clashed with Catalan independence supporters in Barcelona on Saturday. This comes almost 1 year after the region's illegal independence referendum.

Catalan politicians attending national day celebrations reaffirm their support for independence and say meaningful negotiations with Madrid over the issue can only take place after jailed colleagues are freed

Symbols raise questions about role of local authorities

Spain withdraws international arrest warrants against Puigdemont and other Catalan politicians.

Spanish authorities are investigating the alleged diversion of public funds to entities involved in the 2017 independence referendum

Catalonia’s new leader elected by the region’s parliament is described as a hardline separatist who has vowed to continue the struggle for independence from Spain.

Political discomfort bloomed in Catalonia on Monday as thousands of Catalans gifted their partners with yellow roses during Sant Jordi, the annual celebration of the region's patron saint.