Authorities in Greece have taken the decision to close down the Acropolis in Athens for a second day due to the unusually high temperatures the country is currently experiencing. The closure will take place during the afternoon on Thursday, with the hilltop citadel, which is Greece's most popular ancient site, shutting its doors from midday to 5 p.m. local time. This measure is being implemented in response to the extreme heat that is forecasted to exceed 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit) in much of central and southern Greece, including greater Athens, the Cyclades islands, and Crete.
In addition to the Acropolis, all other archaeological sites in the Greek capital will also be closed during the same hours. Visitors who have pre-booked visits for this period will be able to use their tickets later in the day, according to the Culture Ministry. The closure is part of a broader effort to ensure the safety and well-being of both tourists and locals amidst the scorching temperatures.
With the heightened risk of wildfires during the summer months, officials are on alert and taking preventive measures to mitigate the potential impact. In Athens, authorities are providing air-conditioned spaces for the public to seek relief from the heat. Furthermore, fans have been distributed to secondary schools where important exams, such as end-of-year and university entrance tests, are currently taking place.
Fortunately, relief is on the horizon as the weather is expected to cool down on Friday and Saturday, offering some respite from the intense heatwave that has gripped the region. Despite the temporary closures and challenges posed by the extreme weather conditions, authorities are working diligently to ensure the safety and comfort of residents and visitors in Greece.
