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EN
The Greek Ministry of Culture announced that the archaeological site, recognized by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), will be closed from noon to 5 pm as temperatures are forecast to reach 43 degrees Celsius.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Climate Crisis and Civil Protection has warned of a very high risk of wildfires in the Attica region surrounding Athens.
Schools will close in some parts of the country for two days, including in the capital, while the Ministry of Labor has advised public sector employees to work from home.
Extreme heat can cause serious health problems, especially for the elderly and children. Closing archaeological sites aims to limit visitors' exposure to harsh weather, avoiding the risk of heatstroke, exhaustion, and even stroke.
Popular Greek tourist destinations forced to close due to heatwave.
Hot weather and high humidity can negatively impact archaeological heritage, causing cracking, peeling, and even damage to architectural structures and historical artifacts. Closing these sites aims to protect the heritage from the adverse effects of the weather.
Public transport authorities have opened an air-conditioned hall at Syntagma metro station in central Athens so people can escape the heat.
Additionally, Greek authorities advise tourists to drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration, use sunscreen and wear wide-brimmed hats to protect their skin from the sun, and avoid strenuous physical activity outdoors during hot weather.
In July 2023, the Acropolis was also forced to close during a two-week heatwave, the longest to date. In 2023, the Acropolis welcomed a record nearly 4 million visitors.
Also on June 12, Greece and Jordan jointly dispatched aircraft to assist the Republic of Cyprus in controlling a major wildfire in the southwestern region of Paphos.
A wildfire broke out on June 11th east of the village of Giolou, prompting the Republic of Cyprus to declare a national emergency plan and mobilize civil defense forces to evacuate five nearby mountain villages as a precaution.
More than 300 people, including firefighters, were mobilized to ensure the fire did not spread further. Police believe the fire originated in an illegal dumpsite.
