Naxos: Outrage Over Disrespectful Behavior by Visitors at Island’s Archaeological Site
Images showing disrespectful behavior by tourists at the archaeological site of the Delian Apollo sanctuary (Portara) on Naxos have sparked widespread anger and frustration, not only among locals but also more broadly online. Among the images circulating are one of a shirtless young man lifting an ancient stone with both hands, and another of a family having a picnic with skewers and soft drinks among the ruins.
The Portara, the iconic marble gateway that greets visitors arriving by boat at the northern edge of Naxos harbor, is the most recognizable landmark of the island. It is part of the Delian Apollo sanctuary, an unorganized archaeological site that remains open and free to the public—meaning it has no entrance fee, but also no permanent security. As such, its protection relies solely on the awareness and respect of visitors, something that, unfortunately, cannot be taken for granted, as recent events have shown.
The Mayor of Naxos, said the Greek Ministry of Culture was immediately informed of the incidents. Since yesterday, a guard has been assigned to supervise the site, though it is still unclear whether this will be a permanent measure.
“What the municipality and the island’s residents want—and we’ve submitted this formally to the Ministry of Culture—is the on-site restoration and development of this archaeological area. We’re asking for proper conservation and an organized management system with a ticketing process and permanent security. This would not only ensure the site's protection but also generate revenue to be reinvested in cultural heritage,” the mayor said. He also praised the valuable work being done on Naxos by the head of the Cyclades Antiquities Ephorate, Dimitris Athanasoulis.
It should be noted, however, that the Naxos municipality recently clashed with the Ministry of Culture over plans to relocate major antiquities—specifically, the Kouros statues of Flerio—to the new Archaeological Museum currently under construction in the town of Chora. During a recent municipal council meeting, in which Mr. Athanasoulis presented studies highlighting the need to move the statues for their protection, both the mayor and residents voiced strong opposition. They even threatened legal action to prevent such a move.
“We are indeed against relocating antiquities from their original settings,” Mayor Lianos confirmed to protothema.gr, adding that the municipality is urging the Ministry of Culture “to reconsider and re-prioritize some of its current plans.”
