Metallica concert in Athens monitored for seismic activity

On May 9, 2026, the rock band Metallica performed at the Olympic Athletic Center of Athens (OAKA) as part of their M72 world tour, marking their return to Greece after 16 years. Estimates of the attendance vary between 80,000 and 85,000 spectators. The event featured opening acts by Knocked Loose and Gojira. During the show, the National Observatory of Athens deployed a seismograph to measure artificial vibrations known as 'concert quakes' caused by the synchronized movement of the crowd. Officials noted that these are not earthquakes but artificial tremors often observed at large gatherings. The band included local tributes in their setlist, performing instrumental versions of 'Zorbas' by Mikis Theodorakis and 'Den choras pouthena' by Trypes. Director of the Geodynamic Institute, Vasilis Karastathis, confirmed that data analysis will follow in the coming days, noting the event was used for scientific observation. Proceeds from the concert will partially benefit the band's 'All Within My Hands' foundation.