A powerful explosion shook Athens’ historic Plaka district early Friday, partially collapsing a building and injuring three people.
The blast occurred around 7:35 a.m. on Lysikratous Street, near Vassilissis Amalias Avenue and opposite the Columns of Olympian Zeus. The explosion caused extensive damage to the building, nearby properties and parked vehicles.
Two Women Rescued from Nearby Building
Firefighters rescued two women from a neighboring building. Both suffered minor injuries and were taken to Gennimatas Hospital. A passerby was also injured by debris from the blast.
The Fire Service deployed 16 firefighters, six vehicles and a specialized rescue unit from the 1st EMAK. Police cordoned off the area as crews assessed the damaged buildings.
Authorities Investigate Possible Gas Leak
Authorities are investigating the cause of the explosion. Initial reports point to a possible natural gas leak installation, but the investigation has not established the cause definitively.
The blast was powerful enough to damage buildings and vehicles across the narrow street, while debris covered the road around the collapsed structure.
Plaka
Plaka is Athens’ oldest historical neighborhood. The neighborhood itself was originally developed mostly around the ruins of the ancient Agora, and this area of Athens has continuously been inhabited since the days of Ancient Greece.
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