Athens Acropolis Not Accessible To Tourists As Greece Grapples With Heatwave

The Acropolis in Athens, Greece's most iconic tourist destination, was closed to the public during the peak heat hours on Wednesday due to an intense heatwave sweeping the nation. The Greek climate crisis and civil protection ministry took this precautionary measure as temperatures soared.

Heatwave impact on high-frequency tourist spots

Greece, frequently experiencing extreme summer heat, is facing its first significant heatwave of the year, expected to peak in the coming days. The Culture Ministry indicated that this closure might be extended depending on weather conditions.

In addition to the Acropolis closure, several other measures have been implemented across the country. Schools in various regions, including the capital, will remain closed on Wednesday and Thursday. The labor ministry has advised public-sector employees to work from home to avoid the heat.

To provide relief from the oppressive temperatures, the public transport authority has opened an air-conditioned hall at the Syntagma metro station in central Athens, offering a cool refuge for residents and tourists alike.

This isn’t the first time the Acropolis has been impacted by extreme weather. Last July, the site had to close during a heatwave that lasted two weeks, an unprecedented duration for such conditions in the region.

The Acropolis, which attracted nearly four million visitors last year, is a major draw for tourists, especially those arriving on cruise ships docking at the nearby port of Piraeus. Its closure underscores the severity of the current heatwave and the need for proactive measures to ensure public safety.

Authorities are also on high alert for the risk of wildfires, particularly in the Attica region surrounding Athens, as the high temperatures and dry conditions create a perilous environment.