The Acropolis hill in Athens, Greece, credit: A.Savin via Wikipedia
Starting in September, Greece will implement a new measure to manage the number of visitors to the Acropolis, capping the daily limit at 20,000 individuals. The decision comes in response to concerns about overcrowding and bottlenecks at the iconic archaeological site in Athens. Greek culture minister, Lina Mendoni, emphasized the need to protect the monument and enhance visitors' experience. The trial for the entry limits will begin on September 4, with permanent enforcement scheduled for April 1, 2024.
Throughout the day, visitor quotas will vary based on the hours the Acropolis is open to the public, from 8 am to 8 pm. The majority of foot traffic arrives between 8 am and noon, resulting in 3,000 people granted access during the first hour and 2,000 during the second hour, with varying capacities for the remainder of the day.
Aside from managing crowds, there is also growing concern about the impact of climate change. Last year, over 3 million people visited the Acropolis, which plays a vital role in Greece's tourism-driven economy. However, extreme weather conditions have prompted authorities to temporarily close access to popular attractions. During an unprecedented heatwave, temperatures reached 118°F (48°C), leading to the distribution of 30,000 bottles of water and the creation of shaded areas at the Golden Age temples.
The new visitor limits are seen as essential in striking a balance between promoting tourism, which is vital for the country's economy, and safeguarding the historical site for future generations.
Selena Mattei