Greece shuts down Acropolis due to extreme heat wave

On July 8, 2025, authorities in Greece announced the temporary closure of the Acropolis in Athens due to dangerous high temperatures reaching up to 107 degrees Fahrenheit (about 42 degrees Celsius). This closure, implemented from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. local time, aimed to ensure the safety of both visitors and workers at the site during a significant heat wave affecting various regions across the country. The government's decision comes as part of broader safety measures, as outdoor workers were also mandated to take breaks during the hottest part of the day to mitigate health risks. The already extreme weather conditions have prompted the Greek culture ministry to monitor the situation closely, especially given that temperatures in several areas exceeded 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit). In addition to the closure of the Acropolis, mandatory work stoppages were instituted for outdoor workers and food delivery services in central Greece and some islands, highlighting the urgent need to protect workers from the hazardous heat. Those failing to comply with these measures risk facing hefty fines of up to 2,000 euros ($2,350) per worker. Greece is no stranger to heat waves, especially during summer months, as similar conditions were experienced in June and July of the previous year, leading to similar closures of high-profile cultural sites. As reported, the ongoing heat wave is part of a concerning trend noted by the United Nation’s Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, which has indicated that heat waves are becoming increasingly common due to human-caused climate change. The Greek authorities maintain that while they are responding to this immediate crisis, long-term strategies are also being developed to address the growing issue of climate change and its impact on public health and safety. As the situation evolves, authorities are preparing for an increase in the risk of wildfires, which have already been categorized as 'very high' across the eastern mainland of Greece. With further temperature rises anticipated, it is crucial for the government and local agencies to remain vigilant. These extreme weather events not only threaten public health but also pose significant challenges to Greece’s cultural heritage and tourism industry. Ensuring the safety of historic sites like the Acropolis amid such conditions is paramount, prompting immediate and decisive action by the Greek government.