Greece's Acropolis Closes Amidst Sweltering Heatwave

Greece has closed the Acropolis and other archaeological sites in Athens during peak hours due to unseasonably high temperatures. The Culture Ministry has allowed ticket flexibility for visitors. As temperatures rise above 40°C, officials are also on high alert for wildfires and are providing air-conditioned spaces for the public.

Authorities in Greece have closed the Acropolis in Athens for the second consecutive day due to scorching temperatures.

The Culture Ministry has announced that the iconic hilltop citadel will be shut from midday to 5 pm to protect visitors. Other archaeological sites will also follow the same schedule. Visitors with pre-booked tickets can reschedule their visits for later in the day.

Temperatures are anticipated to soar above 40°C (104°F) across central and southern Greece, including Athens and nearby islands like the Cyclades and Crete. As a precaution, officials are on heightened alert for wildfires, a recurrent summer threat. To mitigate the heat, Athens has opened air-conditioned public spaces and provided fans to secondary schools conducting exams. Meteorologists predict some relief on Friday and Saturday with cooler temperatures.