ACROPOLIS SHUT DOWN DURING SCORCHING HEATWAVE

A SUMMER heatwave in Greece has pushed temperatures above 40C across the country, leading authorities in Athens to close the city’s iconic Acropolis.

Athens saw temperatures of 39C recorded in the shade, climbing to well above 40C in the sun.

Public broadcaster ERT reported that the Acropolis was closed at 2pm. Greece’s Ministry of Culture had decided to take the step as a measure to protect visitors and employees from heatstroke. The ancient site is usually open until 8pm.

In central Greece, thermometers showed temperatures of 41C. Local radio and television stations advised the public to spend as little time as possible outdoors under the sun, wear light-coloured cotton clothes and drink plenty of water, while avoiding alcohol or sugary drinks.

Elderly and ill individuals were advised to stay home.

Temperatures are only expected to drop to normal seasonal levels – around the 36C mark – on Tuesday, according to the meteorologists.

Picture: AFP Tourists enter the ancient Parthenon temple atop Acropolis hill in Athens before unusually high temperatures forced its closure.