The general strike was targeted at a bailout-related overhaul of the country's ailing pension system. Tens of thousands joined anti-government protests in the capital city, which were mostly peaceful before clashes between violent protesters and the police outside Parliament. Tensions flared briefly when the crowd broke past a line of police in riot gear and headed towards Tsipras's office. Police responded with tear gas and stun grenades.

The Greeks are showing discontent with pension reforms imposed by Alexis Tsipras, incumbent prime minister.

According to the proposals Greece sent its lenders on Monday, all six main pension funds will be merged into one and future main pensions could be cut by up to 30 percent. It sets a lower limit at 384 euros per month and sets a ceiling of 2,300 euros on the maximum monthly pension outlay. The average monthly pension currently stands at about 850 euros. An EU source said Greece had sent the draft pension reform bill to the lenders. Greece must implement the reforms to conclude the first review of its multi-billion bailout out agreed with its lenders in July.

The protests crippled the public transport. Domestic flights and ferries were cancelled. Hospital staffers were also involved in the demonstration and went to work in case of emergency. Taxi drivers, who had never participated in such events before, also joined the protesters.

Greek lawyers took part in the demonstration. Engineers and other wealthy citizens expressed their disapproval of the austerity measures. Police said some 40,000 people joined the demonstrations.

On the photo, Greek farmers disrupted motorways.

Thousands of residents gathered on the square in Athens.