Two American tourists were stabbed in a knife attack at the Acropolis of Athens on Tuesday morning, prompting a swift police response at the ancient landmark. The suspect, a man in his mid-to-late 50s with underlying psychiatric issues, was detained near the scene while still holding the weapon, according to authorities.
Attack at Ticket Counter
Emergency services arrived at the Acropolis around 8 a.m. after reports of a man threatening crowds near the ticket counter. The suspect had already stabbed two American tourists—a man and a woman—during the incident. The male victim suffered a severe leg injury and was taken to the Red Cross Hospital, while the woman sustained a knife wound to her hand, as reported by The Mirror.
The two victims were waiting in line at the ticket office to enter the Acropolis when they were attacked. The male victim stepped in front to protect the woman, according to witnesses. Police have not yet disclosed a potential motive for the attack.
Police Response and Investigation
Officers from the Athens Police Department quickly detained the suspect near the scene. He remains in police custody, and authorities are investigating the circumstances of the attack. The suspect is believed to have a history of psychiatric issues, but no further details have been released.
The Acropolis of Athens, a UNESCO World Heritage site, attracts approximately four million visitors annually. The ancient citadel houses iconic structures such as the Parthenon and is a major tourist destination in Greece.
Travel Advisory
In response to the incident, the British Foreign Office (FCDO) reiterated its travel advice for Greece, updated on July 2. The advisory warns that “terrorists are likely to try to carry out attacks in Greece” and notes that “attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places visited by foreign nationals.” The FCDO highlighted recent attacks involving explosives and automatic weapons against Greek institutions, shopping malls, banks, media offices, diplomatic premises, and police. However, there is no current advice against travel to Greece for British holidaymakers.
