Greek Archaeological Sites Adjust Hours Due to Heatwave

Archaeological site of Dodona. Photo source: Ioannina Ephorate of Antiquities

Greece is facing an intense heatwave this week, prompting authorities to adjust the opening hours of archaeological sites nationwide to protect both visitors and staff from soaring temperatures.

In Athens, the Ephorate of Antiquities has announced that from July 22 to 25, the Acropolis and slopes, Olympian, Lyceum, Roman Agora, Ancient Agora, and Hadrian’s Library will close daily between 12pm and 5pm.

Similar measures are being implemented across the country:

Thessaloniki Ephorate: From Monday, July 21, to Friday, July 25, the Eptapyrgio fortress and Palace of Galerius will close from 1pm to 6pm. All other sites will operate on normal schedules.
Ioannina Ephorate: The archaeological site of Dodona will be closed between 12pm and 5pm, Tuesday, July 22 through Friday, July 25, though scheduled performances will go ahead as planned.
Zakynthos Ephorate: On Wednesday, July 23, the Zakynthos Venetian Fortress will remain closed due to a Level 4 (very high) fire risk alert and access restrictions to forested areas.

Weather Forecast

The Greek Ministry of Civil Protection has issued an updated Emergency Weather Deterioration Bulletin (EDEK), warning of extreme heat through Saturday, July 26.

Mainland areas are expected to reach 39–41°C, rising to 42–43°C in Thessaly, eastern Central Greece, and the Peloponnese.
Athens and Thessaloniki will see highs around 39–40°C.
The Eastern Aegean and Dodecanese will hit 39–41°C, while Crete and the Ionian Islands will range from 36–38°C.
Similar conditions are forecast for Thursday and Friday, with Saturday bringing peaks of 40–43°C across much of the country.