A tourist visiting the Greek island of Naxos has sparked outrage after lifting a large piece of marble at the ancient Portara monument for a photo.
As reported by the New York Post, the act was captured and shared on Facebook by local resident Kiriakos Jr Boulamatsis, who wrote, “They have crossed the line. Wake up before it’s too late.”
The incident occurred at the Portara, a 6-metre-high marble gateway dating back to the 6th century BCE, located on the islet of Palatia.
In the photo, the shirtless man is seen lifting what appears to be a chunk of marble from the surrounding area while a woman photographs him.
Social media users criticised the man’s actions, calling them “disrespectful” and “shameful”.
Some comments also expressed concern over the growing tourism pressure on Greek heritage sites, with one saying Naxos was “increasingly becoming a Disneyland”.
Boulamatsis pointed to the lack of protection at the site, which is freely accessible to the public and does not have regular security.
He called on local authorities to act immediately by assigning guards and improving safety measures.
“Don’t wait until the season is over. Do it before the month changes,” he urged.
He added that in other countries, such behaviour could lead to fines or deportation.
In response to the incident, Naxos Mayor Dimitris Lianos said the Ministry of Culture had been notified, and a guard has since been posted at the Portara. It is unclear how long security will remain in place.
