The Greek Culture Ministry announced that the UNESCO-recognized archaeological site will be closed from noon to 5 p.m. 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 fires in the Attica region around Athens.
Schools will close in some parts of the country for two days, including in the capital, while the Labour Ministry has advised public sector employees to work from home.
Extreme heat can cause serious health problems, especially for the elderly and children. The closure of archaeological sites is intended to limit visitors’ exposure to extreme weather conditions, which can lead to heatstroke, heat exhaustion, and even stroke.
Popular Greek tourist site forced to close due to heatwave
Heat and high humidity can have a negative impact on archaeological heritage, causing cracking, peeling, and even damage to historical structures and artifacts. The closure of these sites is intended to protect heritage from the negative effects of the weather.
The public transport authority has opened an air-conditioned hall at Syntagma metro station in central Athens for people to escape the heat.
In addition, Greek authorities also recommend that tourists 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 activities outdoors during hot weather.
In July 2023, the Acropolis was also forced to close during the longest heatwave to date, lasting two weeks. In 2023, the Acropolis welcomed a record nearly 4 million visitors.
Also on June 12, Greece and Jordan sent planes to assist the Republic of Cyprus in controlling a large forest fire in the southwest area of Paphos.
A fire broke out on June 11 in the eastern village of Giolou, forcing the Republic of Cyprus to declare a national emergency 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 started at an illegal rubbish dump.
