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The demonstrators battled with protected police officers yesterday as they filled the Piazza Galvani to guard the square to prevent activists of the far-right party Forza Nuova to rally that was taking place later in the day.

Images show hundreds of protestors clashing with police, bellowing “we occupy the square and we will not leave”, waving an red anti-fascist flag and a banner emblazoned with the message “Municipal Council supports fascists”.

The riots comes as tensions ahead of the general election on March 4 rise, with right-wing parties boasting a clear lead in the polls, but are unlikely to win an absolute majority - pointing to possible political deadlock.

The clash erupted at 14.05 local time (13.05 GMT) in Piazza Galvani between police and demonstrators.