Greece’s Ministry of Culture has responded to growing criticism over the stage erected in front of the statue of Alexander the Great in Thessaloniki for an upcoming concert by Antonis Remos.
The ministry issued a statement on Monday evening, September 7, after images of the large stage and its structures triggered strong reactions on social media.
Responding to questions from journalists, the Ministry of Culture said it has no authority over the location where the concert will take place.
“The Ministry of Culture has absolutely no jurisdiction over the area where the concert will take place. It is outside an archaeological site, outside a historic site and does not adjoin a designated monument,” the ministry said.
Remos will perform the anniversary concert on Saturday, September 12, marking 30 years of his career in Greek music. Admission will be free.
Backlash over the stage
Images showing the stage being constructed directly in front of the Alexander the Great statue sparked a wave of criticism.
The initial layout significantly restricted the visibility of the landmark, prompting comments from members of the public who argued that the statue should not become visually incorporated into the concert structure.
Some social media users questioned who approved the design, with one reaction describing the setup as turning the area into a “tsantiri” — a makeshift or poorly arranged venue.
The Municipality of Thessaloniki has also intervened, asking organisers to reconsider the way the stage has been positioned.
Deputy Mayor for Public Space Protection and Municipal Police, Giorgos Demarelos, said the municipality wants the monument to remain “free, distinct and highlighted in the way it deserves.”
At the same time, the municipal authorities want the major concert to go ahead as planned.
The controversy now centres on whether organisers will modify the stage arrangement before Saturday’s concert to improve the visibility of one of Thessaloniki’s most recognisable landmarks.
