Tourists disappointed as Acropolis closed due to heat

As temperatures in Athens soared above 43 degrees Celsius on Monday, the Greek Ministry of Culture took the decision to close the Acropolis to visitors.

Tourists were disappointed to discover the Acropolis was closed to visitors from 2 p.m. on Monday, due to the excessive temperatures. The Ministry of Culture decided to prevent access to the ancient site in order to protect public and staff from the heat.

LennieZ

The Acropolis in Athens, Greece - an ancient ruin in a ruined country.

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Ekathimerini reported the ministry acted in response to an appeal by the Panhellenic Union of Employees at archaeological sites. According to Keep Talking Greece disappointed and angry tourists were surprised to find the site closed, prompting the Deputy Ministry of Culture to take to the airwaves to defend the decision, saying “There is a relevant law provision for extreme weather conditions." Further justifications was given by citing three incidences of fainting at the Acropolis prior to the closing. However the arguments were not well received and it was pointed out that other workers were not exempt from working due to high temperatures. Greece is reliant upon tourist revenues and last summer's tourists were often disappointed to find archaeological sites closed by strike action. Digital Journal reported that striking guards locked tourists out of the Acropolis on Christmas Eve.