Five people are missing after a powerful explosion caused a building to partially collapse in the heart of Athens’ historic Plaka district on Friday, injuring three people and sending debris across the surrounding area.
The blast struck a two storey building in the popular tourist neighbourhood, close to major landmarks including the Acropolis and the Temple of Olympian Zeus.
The cause of the explosion has not yet been established.
The building was left severely damaged, with twisted metal, shattered balconies and large concrete slabs hanging from the structure. The force of the blast also sent rocks and broken glass flying as far as three blocks away.
Firefighters and emergency crews rushed to the scene as smoke rose above the historic centre of Athens.
Authorities are searching for five people believed to have been inside or connected to the building, including an elderly couple who lived there.
Part of the property was reportedly being used as short term tourist accommodation, according to police.
The area is one of Athens’ busiest tourist districts, with hotels, short term rentals, cafes and souvenir shops lining its narrow streets.
Three people were injured in the incident. A passer-by was among those hurt, while two women who became trapped in a neighbouring building were rescued and taken to hospital.
Rescue teams continue to search the damaged structure as authorities work to determine what caused the devastating explosion and establish the whereabouts of those still missing.
