The Acropolis and six other major archaeological sites in Athens will remain closed through Friday, July 25, due to the ongoing extreme heat, the Greek Culture Ministry announced Tuesday.
The closure comes amid a prolonged and dangerous heatwave that has gripped much of Greece, particularly affecting urban centers. The National Meteorological Service has updated its emergency bulletin, predicting that Thursday and Friday will bring the highest temperatures yet.
In a statement issued by the Athens Ephorate of Antiquities, the following sites will be closed to the public: The Acropolis, the Temple of Olympian Zeus, Aristotle’s Lyceum, the Roman Agora, the Ancient Agora, and Hadrian’s Library.
Cities in Greece hit hardest by the heat on Tuesday, July 22, 2025. Photo: METEO
Thermal imaging taken early on Tuesday morning recorded surface temperatures on pavements and structures in central Athens reaching up to 60°C (140°F).
Emergency health and safety measures have also been put in place for staff working at these sites or outdoors including delivery services, with efforts to mitigate the risks posed by the searing conditions. The closures aim to protect both visitors and employees from the severe health risks associated with the extreme temperatures.
Hit hardest on Tuesday evening according to METEO were cities in Central Greece: Tragana, Larisa, Karditsa, Makrakomi, Dendra (Tyrnavos), Theologos, Thiva and Trikala registering 44°C and above.
This is how to protect yourself during heatwaves in Greece.
