This stands in stark contrast to a similar event at last year’s Anna Vissi concert held at the crowded Kallimarmaro, which sparked minimal controversy.
Legal Framework and Discrepancies
During the Adidas drone display, the company secured all required permits, including one from the Zea Pavilion administration through the Olympic and Bequest Committee under the Ministry of Finance, and another from the Civil Aviation Authority. These permissions covered a designated flight path over a 200 sqm area adjacent to Zappeion, costing only €380.
Although the drones operated within the authorized zone, the visuals captured from various angles created the illusion of a giant shoe hovering over the Acropolis—an image that Culture Minister Lina Mendoni found objectionable. Adidas clarified that no images of the Acropolis were utilized for promotional purposes.
Legal Breaches
The Zea Pavilion failed to obtain permission from the Ministry of Culture’s Archaeological Council for the commercial use of this protected area. Under Greek law, such authorization is essential for both the monument and its immediate surroundings. Consequently, the Culture Ministry initiated a lawsuit for violating archaeological regulations, leading to a prosecutor’s inquiry. The Minister of Finance also sought clarifications from the board of the Zea Pavilion.
Anna Vissi Concert Drone Display
At the concert in October, a drone show showcased images of Vissi, along with her name and song titles, set against the backdrop of the Acropolis. The production team secured aerial photography and filming permissions from the Central Council of Modern Monuments, and the visuals were captured from a safe distance, avoiding any controversy.
As drone displays gain popularity, it’s essential to establish clear regulations that protect Greece’s cultural heritage from both direct and indirect risks, ensuring the responsible use of drone technology near archaeological sites.
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