Greek authorities have implemented emergency measures this week as a powerful heatwave again grips the nation, pushing daily highs well above 40 °C (104 °F) in many regions. On Tuesday, officials announced a partial closure of the iconic Acropolis archaeological site—one of the world’s most visited landmarks—from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. local time. The decision, taken by the Culture Ministry’s archaeological service, aims to shield both visitors and staff from the dangers of intense midday heat.
Accompanying the shutdown of Athens’ most celebrated monument, the Labour Ministry has also mandated mandatory work breaks nationwide for outdoor laborers—including construction workers and delivery personnel—during peak daytime hours. Non-compliance is subject to hefty fines of €2,000 per worker. This measure comes as part of broader efforts to curb heat-related illnesses and fatalities. Authorities have warned that temperatures in places could reach a staggering 42 °C (107.6 °F) .
The heatwave began on Sunday and is expected to last for four days, according to meteorologists. Officials have issued repeated warnings about a rising wildfire threat, particularly across eastern mainland Greece, including the region surrounding Athens. Indeed, Greece’s fire department reported up to 50 wildfires daily in the past week. The Civil Protection Authority has heightened its alert level, citing the heatwave and high winds as critical factors increasing fire risks.
Tourists visiting the Acropolis have previously fainted from the heat, triggering earlier midday closures of the site during past heatwaves in 2023 and mid‑2024. The hilltop ruins offer minimal shade, and with temperatures soaring, the measures are viewed as essential to protect public health. In previous years, the Culture Ministry also shuttered the area during similar weather conditions, coinciding with a record influx of 4–4.5 million visitors annually .
Beyond the Acropolis, tenants and the broader public are also adapting. In response, schools across Attica and other regions have either closed or shifted to remote learning. Municipal authorities have opened air-conditioned spaces, such as metro station halls, to offer temporary relief. Meanwhile, garbage collection operations and certain public services have been delayed during the afternoon hours to protect workers .
Local delivery courier Michalis Keskinidis remarked that hydration and frequent rest are now essential: “We drink a lot of water … combined with electrolytes, and take breaks whenever possible”. Meanwhile, Greek Red Cross teams continue to distribute water to tourists queuing at entrances to archaeological sites.
Greece finds itself among several southern European countries contending with intense heat this summer. Similar heatwave-related closures and restrictions have occurred in past years, but experts warn the situation is intensifying, driven by climate change. The extended duration of this heatwave—comparable to the record-breaking episodes of 2024—underscores a disturbing seasonal trend.
As temperatures remain dangerously high through the week, Greek authorities urge vulnerable groups—especially the elderly, children, and outdoor workers—to take precautions: stay hydrated, avoid sun exposure during midday, and seek shaded or air-conditioned spaces. Emergency services in Athens are on alert, and civil protection officials are coordinating readiness for potential wildfires.
This wave of heat is a stark reminder of the growing threats posed by climate-driven extremes. For Greece, long cherished for its sun-drenched landscapes and ancient ruins, it is becoming a test of resilience—and adaptation. Authorities emphasize the need for both institutional caution and individual responsibility as they navigate the scorching summer ahead.
