New operating hours for archaeological sites and monuments due to high temperatures

The General Secretariat of the Culture Ministry on Thursday announced that, due to the heatwave from Thursday until Sunday (23/7), the operating hours of archaeological sites and monuments are to be modified during the afternoon hours, with sites not admitting visitors between noon and 17:30.

"In the event of a change in the weather conditions, the Ministry of Culture will issue a new announcement," it said, adding that "the Ephorates of Antiquities will ensure that all their employees are informed and that the appropriate measures are taken, taking into account the nature of the employees' duties and the conditions of their place of work."

Temperatures were rising again throughout Greece on Thursday, with forecasts predicting highs of 43 Celsius during the day, and sustained high temperatures until next Sunday. The mercury is forecast to temporarily drop on Monday, 24 July, before surging up again on Tuesday, 25 July, according to the National Meteorological Service's updated report on heatwave CLEON.

From Friday, 21 July, until Sunday, 23 July, temperatures are forecast to escalate, reaching 41C-43C on the mainland and even climbing as high as 44C in parts of Thessaly and Central Greece. Temperatures will also be high on the islands, ranging from 38C-41C.

On Monday, 24 July, there will be a drop of between 2 to 5 degrees, mostly in the eastern parts of the country.

According to the available data, high temperatures are forecast to return on Tuesday, 25 July, until Thursday, 27 July.

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