Metallica delivered a high-energy performance at Athens’ Olympic Stadium (OAKA) on Saturday night, marking the band’s first concert in Greece in 16 years as part of its M72 World Tour.
Tens of thousands of fans packed the stadium for the show, which featured Metallica’s in-the-round circular stage setup and the return of the band’s signature “Snake Pit” fan zone at the centre of the arena.
One of the night’s standout moments came during the traditional improvisation segment by bassist Robert Trujillo and guitarist Kirk Hammett, who paid tribute to Greece by performing ‘Zorba’ by Mikis Theodorakis and ‘De Horas Pouthena’ by Trypes.
The audience joined in singing along, creating what organisers described as a rare connection between the international metal scene and Greek rock culture.
The concert featured classic hits including For Whom the Bell Tolls, Enter Sandman and Master of Puppets, alongside material from the band’s latest album 72 Seasons.
Frontman James Hetfield told fans he was moved by the reception from the “Greek family”, a phrase he often uses to describe the band’s supporters in Greece.
The concert opened with performances from Gojira and Knocked Loose.
