Local police were deployed in a security ring around a section of the park where Catalonia’s parliament building is located behind walls. Puigdemont walked towards the building followed by masses of supporters.

He had earlier announced publicly that he was returning to Spain, though he gave no travel details.

Puigdemont’s presence in Spain is likely to generate renewed political tension over the smoldering issue of Catalan independence. The failed secession attempt triggered a protracted…