Rioters in central Athens torched buildings, looted shops and clashed with riot police yesterday.

This was in protest because lawmakers debated harsh new austerity measures, demanded by bailout creditors to save the debt-crippled nation from bankruptcy. 

The clashes erupted after more than 100 thousand protesters marched to the parliament to rally against the drastic cuts, which will axe on in five civil service jobs and slash the minimum wage by more than a fifth.

At least 10 buildings were on fire, including a cinema, bank and cafeteria.

Looters smashed dozens of shops in the worst riot damage in years.