Greece Sues Over Adidas Drone Show Near Acropolis, Citing Heritage Law Breach
Image Credit: Christian Wiediger | Splash
Greece has filed a lawsuit against organizers of a drone show near the Acropolis that promoted Adidas, alleging violations of laws protecting cultural heritage. The display, held on May 15, 2025, featured drones forming the Adidas logo and a shoe, visible in proximity to the UNESCO World Heritage site, sparking public backlash.
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Drone Show Triggers Public Outrage
On May 15, 2025, a drone show at the Zappeion Megaron projected the Adidas logo and a sports shoe into the sky, with the Acropolis, including the Parthenon Temple, visible in the background. The Parthenon, built in 432 B.C., drew over 4.5 million visitors in 2024. Social media posts on X captured the event, with many Greeks criticizing it as disrespectful to the nation’s heritage. Culture Minister Lina Mendoni described the visual effect as “unpleasant”, comparing it to the shoe “kicking the Acropolis”.
Lawsuit Targets Unauthorized Event
The Culture Ministry initiated legal action on May 16, 2025, citing breaches of Greek Law 3028/2002, which protects archaeological sites. The event lacked ministry approval, required for activities near the Acropolis. The Zappeion administration, overseen by the Olympic Legacies Committee, issued a €380 permit for a 200-square-meter space, without ministry consent. Prosecutor Aristidis Koreas ordered an urgent investigation into the permit process, and the Civil Aviation Authority is reviewing drone flight compliance. Adidas stated it followed obtained permits but has not commented further.
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Acropolis’ Cultural Protections
The Acropolis, a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1987, is subject to strict regulations, including a 20,000 daily visitor cap since 2023. In April 2025, the Central Archaeological Council rejected a request by director Yorgos Lanthimos to film Bugonia at the site, citing scenes of 70 dead bodies as incompatible with its cultural significance. Only five films, such as The Child and the Dolphin (1957), have been permitted to shoot there. A 2021 Dior fashion shoot also faced similar criticism.
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Debate Over Heritage and Technology
The incident has prompted calls for stronger oversight, with opposition parties questioning government coordination. Drone shows, increasingly common globally, pose challenges for heritage sites, as seen in similar incidents in Italy and India. The investigation may lead to new regulations for aerial displays in Greece.
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Ensuring Accountability
Greece’s legal response underscores its commitment to preserving the Acropolis as a national symbol. The lawsuit and investigations seek to enforce compliance with heritage laws, addressing public demands for accountability. The outcome may influence future protections for cultural landmarks.
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Source: Balkan Insight, Greek City Times, Greek Reporter
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