At least two people have died and several are missing after an explosion tore apart a three‑storey holiday‑rental building in the historic Plaka district of Athens, close to the Acropolis.
The blast, which is believed to have been caused by a gas leak, collapsed the entire structure, sending fragments of concrete and debris across the narrow street.
Local officials confirmed that an American man and woman were among those killed, while a British national and a Greek resident were reported missing. Four other U.S. tourists are also believed to be unaccounted for.
Emergency services poured into the scene early Saturday, using thermal‑imaging cameras and heavy‑duty excavators to sift through the wreckage in search of survivors.
The affected site lies between two of Athens’ most visited landmarks – the Acropolis and the Temple of Olympian Zeus – prompting authorities to evacuate nearby buildings and close adjacent roads temporarily.
Athens Mayor Haris Doukas described the incident as “an incredible disaster,” adding that the city would provide support for the families of those affected.
A spokesperson from the UK Foreign Office noted they were monitoring the situation and maintaining contact with Greek authorities to assist any residents or nationals involved.
Investigation teams are looking into the building’s maintenance records and the integrity of its gas fittings, while the Greek fire department continues to monitor for any remaining gas leaks.
Residents and visitors to the city are urged to exercise caution and report any suspicious activity or gas odor to local authorities. The Greek Civil Aviation Authority has confirmed that two of the missing tourists were not listed as passengers on the scheduled flight over Athens.
Throughout the day, images of emergency workers combing through the rubble were shared on social media, sparking international concern and calls for swift action to prevent similar incidents in heritage zones.
