Rescuers searching the rubble of a building that collapsed following a powerful blast in Athens’ historic Plaka district recovered four unconscious people on Saturday, authorities said.

The explosion occurred Friday morning in the tourist district near the ancient Acropolis, Greece’s most visited ancient monument. Rescue crews continued searching the wreckage for other possible victims.

Athens Mayor Haris Doukas said Friday night that the blast was believed to have been caused by a massive gas leak. Nearby buildings were also damaged and evacuated following the explosion.

The Fire Department said a fourth person was found unconscious inside the rubble of the two-story building in Plaka, a historic neighborhood located at the foot of the Acropolis hill.

Earlier Saturday, an unconscious woman and a man were taken from the site by ambulance. Two other women were injured after the blast affected an adjacent building on Lysikratous Street, according to the fire brigade.

About 30 firefighters and three search dogs were involved in the rescue operation as crews continued examining the collapsed structure.

Footage from the scene showed rubble scattered across the street, with several parked cars damaged by falling debris.

Resident Andreas Martzaklis said the people rescued by firefighters from the adjacent building were tourists.

The blast also damaged a nearby church. The pastor said Sunday’s service would be held outdoors because of the damage.

Authorities continued investigating the explosion as search and rescue operations remained underway.

SOURCE: Associated Press (AP), September 26, 2026.