Explosion near Acropolis collapses building in Athens' Plaka, injuring two
An explosion in Athens' Plaka district near the Acropolis collapsed a building on Lysikratous Street and injured two women, according to emergency crews at the scene. The blast also sparked a fire and left rubble scattered across the road in one of the Greek capital's busiest tourist areas. Police cordoned off the neighbourhood as firefighters and other emergency teams worked to secure the site.
Sponsored
The two women were rescued from an adjacent property and taken to hospital. Emergency crews remained at the scene to inspect the wreckage and assess nearby structures for signs of further instability. Cars and surrounding buildings were damaged in the blast, and the nearby First Greek Evangelical Church was also badly affected, with windows shattered throughout the building.
Authorities had not confirmed the cause of the explosion. Greek media suggested a gas leak may have been responsible, but that account had not been verified by officials. The incident took place in Plaka, at the foot of the Acropolis, an area known for its dense streets, historic buildings and heavy visitor traffic.
That setting increases the significance of any structural failure or fire, because damage can spread quickly in tightly packed urban areas. The collapse adds to concerns about safety in a district that is both residential and heavily visited by tourists. Plaka is one of Athens' oldest neighbourhoods, and the presence of historic buildings and places of worship means even a localised blast can have wider consequences.
Sponsored
The damage to the church and nearby properties also raises questions about the condition of surrounding structures after the explosion. For now, the cause remains unclear and investigators have not publicly confirmed whether a gas leak or another factor triggered the blast. The immediate focus is on stabilising the area, checking neighbouring buildings and accounting for any further damage.
More information is expected once emergency crews and police complete their inspections and authorities release their findings.
Sponsored
