Art Attack: Greek MP Detained Over National Gallery Incident

Greek MP Nikolaos Papadopoulos was detained after allegedly vandalizing artworks at Athens' National Gallery. Belonging to the ultra-religious Niki party, he considered the pieces blasphemous. The gallery, now closed, held an exhibition titled “The Allure of the Bizarre” alongside works by Francisco Goya.

In a startling incident at Athens' National Gallery, Greek MP Nikolaos Papadopoulos was detained Monday for allegedly vandalizing artworks he deemed blasphemous. The Niki party member reportedly attacked installations during the ongoing exhibition, prompting authorities to temporarily close the gallery.

The exhibition, "The Allure of the Bizarre," features caricatures of religious icons which Papadopoulos, a staunch defender of Orthodox Christian values, had criticized in parliament. His actions come after persistent claims that the artworks insult sacred figures such as the Virgin Mary and Christ.

While the gallery remains closed, the Culture Ministry underscored its commitment to preserving the nation's cultural heritage without resorting to censorship. The exhibition ran parallel to a display of 80 works by Spanish master Francisco Goya, adding further significance to the suspension.

(With inputs from agencies.)