Locals and tourists react after incident involving tourist lifting marble piece for photo
A wave of backlash has swept through Naxos after a tourist was seen lifting a piece of marble within the archaeological site of the Portara last Friday in order to take a photo—a move that has sparked strong disapproval and widespread debate.
In response to the incident, the Cyclades Ephorate of Antiquities has fenced off the ancient Temple of Apollo with wire mesh. Local media report that many residents and visitors alike are expressing disappointment over the measure, arguing that it undermines the integrity and aesthetic of one of the island’s most iconic landmarks.
The Ephorate announced that starting Friday, August 1st, a guard will be stationed at the site with coverage split into three shifts from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM. Additionally, ropes have been placed to cordon off the interior of the archaeological area, preventing visitors from entering sensitive zones. According to naxostimes.gr, this guarding arrangement was made possible by reallocating staff from other sites—an action that has, in turn, left some monuments understaffed.
source: naxostimes.gr
Meanwhile, cyclades24.gr reports that the wire fencing was installed around the Portara on Monday. Regarding the tourist’s behavior, the Ephorate has filed a complaint against unknown persons. A preliminary inspection showed that no damage was caused.
According to naxostimes.gr, the head of the Ephorate, Dimitris Athanasoulis, stated that authorities are now considering converting the Portara into a closed, ticketed site with permanent security.
In a related statement, the Panhellenic Union of Antiquities Guards emphasized the chronic shortage of guarding staff nationwide and called for the immediate hiring of at least 450 additional site guards across Greece.
