Greece wildfires devastate sculptor"s workshop near Athens
- A wildfire in August devastated over 100 square kilometers of land near Athens, forcing thousands to evacuate.
- Sculptor Vangelis Ilias lost his workshop and years of work, although a bust of a saint was spared.
- The incident highlights the increasing frequency of wildfires in Greece and the need for improved fire safety measures.
In August, a devastating wildfire swept through the mountains north of Athens, Greece, affecting the area significantly. The blaze, which lasted from August 11 to 13, consumed over 100 square kilometers of land, including forests and scrubland, and reached the urban fringes of the city. Thousands were forced to evacuate as the flames approached residential areas, destroying homes, businesses, and green spaces, leaving a lasting impact on the landscape and community. Sculptor Vangelis Ilias, who had dedicated 35 years to his craft, lost his workshop in the fire. The flames ignited a gasoline-filled generator, leading to a two-day blaze that obliterated years of his artistic work. Despite the destruction, a bust of a Greek Orthodox saint was miraculously spared, symbolizing resilience amid the devastation. The National Observatory of Athens reported that the fire increased the total area burned in the Attica region since 2017 to over 700 square kilometers, highlighting the alarming trend of more frequent and severe wildfires. Officials noted that the current fire season has seen a 50% increase in incidents compared to the previous year, prompting concerns about climate change and fire management strategies. Authorities implemented evacuation orders and imposed fines on homeowners who failed to adhere to fire safety regulations. While natural factors like strong winds contributed to the fire's rapid spread, local residents also bore responsibility for not maintaining safe grounds around their properties, indicating a need for greater community awareness and preparedness.