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Many in Catalonia fear that a constitutional limitation to public deficit and debt may dramatically reduce Catalonia’s already restricted fiscal autonomy, which would not only affect self-governance but also the possibility to pay for investments or public services not guaranteed by the Spanish State. The fear goes beyond Catalan party boundaries regarding the second amendment to the Spanish Constitution, which would be approved through an “urgent procedure”, almost without public and political debate. Catalan senators could force a call for a binding referendum.

The group dedicated to robbing cars and possessions from unsuspecting drivers at the AP-7 highway has been disbanded by the Catalan police. 13 stolen cars have been recovered and more than 90 people responsible for these crimes arrested.

Lleida’s unique building receives one of the world’s most prestigious architecture awards. The city’s Mayor, Àngel Ros, is said to be proud and highlighted that 75,000 people have already gone through the cultural and business facility since its opening in 2010. La Llotja, designed by the Dutch firm Mecanoo and the Catalan Labb Arquitectura, can be used as a theatre or a conference centre.

Almost 600 professionals from over fifty countries participate in the meeting which will be held between 5th and 9th September in Barcelona.

Flowers of varying species, size and colour have been chosen based on their ability endure the climate of the city.

The UfM Secretary General, Youssef Amrani, wants “international mobilisation” to support Libya's reconstruction and the democratic process. Amrani stated that the UfM backs Libya's new period.

Barça player Gerard Piqué got injured in training and will be out for three weeks. Piqué tore fibres in his left calf muscle and will not play the European Super Cup match in Monaco against Porto next Friday evening.

The project ‘Cultures Trobades’ has already avoided the extinction of 300 varieties of seeds, 50 ancient vineyards and the last living specimens of the Catalan goats. The initiative aims to preserve traditional Catalan agriculture, "the country's cultural heritage."

Main Catalan forces share the need to control public spending and balance public finances but many fear the proposed measure could be used to trim Catalonia’s self-governance. In this line, the Catalan Government’s spokesperson asked Catalan parties to frontally oppose to any measure limiting fiscal autonomy. However, other Catalan politicians are open to discussion but “want to look at the small print”. Furthermore, the Spanish Parliament also approved the fiscal measures announced last week, by which the State will save around 5,000 million euros this year.

Archaeologists discover a 56,000 year old wooden tool, the oldest of its kind ever to have been discovered in the Catalan town of Capellades. The tool is thought to have been used by Neanderthals for maintaining their fires and is "unique in the world".

Plans to change the location of Barcelona zoo have been put on hold indefinitely. The zoo, which has been housed in Park of the Ciutadella since 1892, is now turning its attention to modernisation, aiming to become a "leader in the defence and conservation of biodiversity". Popular with tourists and locals alike, visitors increased by 13% from January to July this year. Coinciding with the zoo’s new plans, two spotted hyenas have arrived, the first in the last 25 years.

The Catalan theatre group, internationally famous for their technological, forceful and unusual settings, is preparing their vision of ‘Terra Baixa’, a rural drama from the lat 19th century, written by the naturalist and realist Angel Guimerà. From its first performance in 1896 the play was a great success, even at international level, inspiring operas and movies. In ‘Terra Baixa Reload’ virtual actors appearing on three giant screens interact with the actors on the stage. It was premiered in Catalonia’s National Library.

Thanks to this purchase, Sabadell United Bank, the US branch of the Catalan Banc Sabadell, significantly increases its size. Lydian Private Bank has assets worth 1,607 million dollars, client deposits of 1,224 million dollars and loans worth some 383 million. Sabadell is particularly strong in Florida, where it already has its US headquarters.

Barça has won its official trophy, the Joan Gamper, thanks to an emphatic win over Napoli. The home side performed brilliantly, and showed how extensive the squad is. Cesc, Keita, Pedro and Messi (2) scored the goals.

Catalonia consolidates its position as the first tourist destination within Spain, with 26% of all visits. International tourism within Catalonia increases in July by 5.1% compared to last year.