Greece Partially Closes Acropolis Daily to Protect Visitors Amid Scorching Heatwave

Greece’s Ministry of Culture has announced a temporary daily closure of the Acropolis, the country’s most iconic archaeological site, due to dangerously high temperatures sweeping the region.

Starting Tuesday, the monument will be closed to the public from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM local time (10:00 to 14:00 GMT). The decision aims to protect both workers and visitors from extreme heat conditions, as temperatures in parts of the country soar to 42°C (107.6°F).

The heatwave, which began on Sunday, marks the second intense heat event Greece has faced since late June. In Athens, where the Acropolis is located, temperatures are expected to reach 38°C.

Built more than 2,500 years ago on an exposed rocky hill with little natural shade, the Acropolis attracts tens of thousands of tourists daily. Last year alone, it welcomed 4.5 million visitors, a 15% increase from 2023.

Greek authorities urge visitors to stay hydrated, avoid peak sun hours, and monitor official announcements for any further adjustments to site access.