madrid
The government voted to strip Catalonia of its autonomy less than an hour after the region declared independence.
Carles Puigdemont said he had not received enough guarantees that the move would stop Spain imposing direct rule.
It is the first time since Spain's return to democracy that the central government has used its powers to seize control of a regional administration.
Instead, Carles Puigdemont made a “sincere and honest” offer for dialogue.
WHAT'S HAPPENING
The prime minister's move could deepen the confrontation between Madrid and Catalonia.
Metro stations were closed in Barcleona as state workers walked out across Catalonia.
Small, autonomous states are shaping their own futures without interference from capitals.
The massive rally filled the streets of central Barcelona.
For men, it's optional.