Serious clashes broke out on Saturday during a protest against the closure of a left-wing cultural center in the Italian city of Turin, DPA reported. At least 11 police officers were injured and 10 people were arrested, authorities said.
The protests were organized because of the closure of the Askatasuna cultural center shortly before Christmas. For decades, the center has served as a meeting place for the left in Turin.
Organizers reported that about 50,000 people took part in a demonstration in the city center on Saturday. Palestinian flags were also waved at the protest, DPA reported.
Clashes also broke out at the end of the gathering. Stones, Molotov cocktails and other objects flew at the police. Several garbage containers were set on fire, as was a police van. Some of the protesters were wearing masks, authorities said, as quoted by DPA.
Security forces responded with water cannons and tear gas. A protester was taken from the scene with head injuries. Video footage showed a police officer lying on the ground as masked men pushed and kicked him, DPA reported.