As Greece continues its efforts to get its finances in order, the country still is struggling with tax collection.
Many businesses throughout the Mediterranean nation try to do as much business as possible in cash. The lack of record keeping for cash transactions makes it easier for them to avoid paying tax.
Apparently, though, it's not just sellers of goods at Greek markets who are looking for ways to skirt the country's taxes. A component of a respected cultural institution has come under scrutiny.
Greek officials have launched a tax fraud inquiry into one of the country's most visited archaeological sites after tourists claimed its gift shop was not giving receipts for souvenirs they bought.
This restored part of the palace at Knossos, which dates from 2,200 B.C., is a favorite tourist site. Photo courtesy Hellenic Ministry of Culture and Sports and the 23rd Ephorate of Prehistoric and Classical Antiquities.
Tax inspectors sent to the world-famous Minoan ruins at Knossos on Crete last week reportedly found 534 breaches of the tax regulations in just one day.
"We await a report from the tax authorities before launching immediate disciplinary action," said Greek Culture Minister Nikos Xydakis, who warned public servants there would be "zero tolerance" of government employees "who fail to defend the interests of the state."
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