The Acropolis of Athens partially closed to visitors on Wednesday

It is the most visited site in Greece. The Acropolis of Athens will remain closed to the public, Wednesday June 12, during the hottest hours of the day, from noon to 5 p.m., due to the heatwave raging in the country, announced the Ministry of Culture. Temperatures of up to 43°C are expected in Greece on Wednesday and Thursday in the first heatwave of the year.

The site, classified as a UNESCO world heritage site and stormed by tourists, could also see this measure applied in the coming days. The Acropolis of Athens, at the top of which is the Parthenon temple, had already closed its doors in July 2023 during a two-week heatwave.

Greece, a Mediterranean country accustomed to heatwaves, has been experiencing intense heat for several days with a peak expected on Wednesday and Thursday. The Ministry of Climate Crisis and Civil Protection also warned on Tuesday of a risk of fire “very high”, particularly in the region of Attica which surrounds the Greek capital. In several regions, schools will also remain closed on Wednesday and Thursday, notably in Athens, while the government has recommended teleworking to public sector employees.