A powerful explosion tore through a residential building in the heart of Athens on Friday, causing the structure to collapse and injuring three people in a crowded tourist district near the Acropolis.
The blast damaged nearby homes, shops and vehicles and sent pieces of masonry and shattered glass several blocks through the historic Plaka neighbourhood.
The cause of the explosion remained unclear as emergency crews searched the site and assessed the damage.
The two storey building was located close to several of Athens’ most visited landmarks, including the Acropolis and the Temple of Olympian Zeus. Smoke rose above the surrounding historic sites as firefighters and ambulances rushed to the area.
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Police spokeswoman Constantina Dimoglidou told Greece’s public broadcaster ERT that the fire brigade had not yet completed its inspection of the site.
The building was left heavily damaged, with twisted metal, shattered balconies and large sections of concrete hanging from the structure.
“It was like the whole building, the whole block blew off. That’s how strong it was,” local resident Andreas Martzaklis said.
Authorities said a passer-by was injured in the blast. Two women who became trapped inside a neighbouring building were rescued and taken to hospital for treatment.
The explosion occurred in one of Athens’ busiest tourist areas, where narrow streets are lined with cafes, souvenir stores, hotels and short term rental properties.
A police source said at least five people were staying in the building, with part of the property being rented to tourists. Authorities had not immediately determined whether anyone else remained trapped inside.
Emergency services continued inspecting surrounding buildings and the damaged area as authorities worked to establish what caused the explosion.
With information from Reuters.
