An explosion has destroyed a building close to the Acropolis in central Athens, killing at least two people, local media reported on Monday.
According to local media accounts, the property included a holiday rental and several visitors were in the building at the time of the blast. US tourists and a UK national were reported among those still missing, though authorities have not released an official list of the absent or confirmed nationalities.
Local reports say emergency crews were at the scene conducting search and rescue operations, and the cause of the explosion had not been established. Investigations were reported to be under way, with officials expected to provide further information as inquiries progress.
The destroyed building is in a heavily touristed area near one of Athens's most visited ancient monuments, and the incident prompted cordons and disruption in the vicinity. Local media said updates on casualties and the identity of those missing would be provided as more details become available.
No immediate official statement was included in the initial reports cited by local outlets, and international diplomatic channels were not referenced in those accounts. Further confirmation and details are awaited from Greek authorities.