A 24-hour strike called by several trade unions caused disruptions across parts of Italy on Friday, affecting rail services, schools and hospitals.
Public transport was operating only on a limited basis in Milan, as cities across the country geared up for demonstrations.
The unions launched the strike to increase pressure on the right-wing coalition government of Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni.
Their demands include higher wages, compensation for inflation and an end to precarious employment practices. The unions also accuse Meloni's government of seeking to restrict the right to strike.
The protests, which organizers described as a "general strike," began at 9 pm (1900 GMT) on Thursday.
Such strikes are a regular occurrence in Italy, although they rarely bring public life to a total standstill.
Rail disruptions were also affecting some international train connections on Friday.
