Athens rocked by huge blast as building collapses near historic Acropolis

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The blast destroyed houses, shops and cars across the historic Plaka tourist district, sending rocks and broken glass as far as three blocks away.

The area is home to some of Athens' most popular sites, including the Acropolis and the Temple of Zeus.

Two women were taken to hospital for treatment after being pulled from an adjacent building, the city's fire department said.

A passer-by was also hurt in the explosion, which occurred at 7.30am local time.

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It was not immediately clear what caused the blast, but some local media reports have said a gas leak was suspected.

Fire crews and ambulances rushed to the scene as smoke billowed above the ancient monuments.

24 firefighters were deployed to the scene after the blast "ripped off the facade of the mid-20th-century house, broke windows and damaged cars near the collapsed building".

Police cordoned off the area as rescuers searched for others who might be trapped, the fire department said.

The building where the blast took place was reduced to a mess of twisted metal, broken balconies and hanging concrete slabs.

"It was like the whole building, the whole block blew off. That's how strong it was," said local resident Andreas Martzaklis.

The area is also home to many hotels and short-term rentals, and crowds of tourists stroll its narrow streets lined with cafes and souvenir shops.

A police source said at least five people lodged at the building, part of which was rented out to tourists.

It was not immediately clear if others were trapped.