On Tuesday morning, a shocking incident unfolded near Athens’ iconic Acropolis, as a man attacked and injured two tourists, according to reports from the Greek police.
The victims, both Greek Americans visiting this famed historical site, were targeted with a knife by the assailant near the entrance of the Acropolis Museum. This museum is a prominent location situated at the base of the Acropolis hill.
Police reports indicate that the woman sustained minor injuries to her leg, whereas the man faced more severe harm, suffering lacerations to his arm.
Following the attack, authorities swiftly apprehended the suspect, and emergency services transported the injured tourists to the hospital for medical care.
While the attacker’s identity remains unknown, initial investigations by the police suggest he might be battling psychological issues.
Violent street attacks are rare in Greece.
In April, authorities arrested an 89-year-old man who allegedly opened fire with a shotgun in a social security office and a courthouse in central Athens, wounding at least four people, reportedly over social security grievances.
The Acropolis hill in Athens hosts the nearly 2,500-year-old Parthenon temple as well as other monuments, and attracts millions of tourists.
Last year, about 4.6 million people visited the site.