In an attempt to cater to all kinds of visitors, Greece’s famous Acropolis of Athens has undergone renovations to become more accessible for tourists with limited mobilities. Here’s all we know about this. By Bayar Jain
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Taking a step in the positive direction and moving towards conscious travel, the Acropolis of Athens in Greece has undergone renovations to become more accessible for people with limited mobilities, reports The Associated Press. Inaugurated by Greece’s Prime Minister, Kyriakos Mitsotakis, on December 3—coinciding with the International Day of People with Disabilities—this move brings forth an elevator on the northern face of the hill, and smoothened artificial stone pathways to facilitate wheelchair mobility. The Greek Reporter further states that the elevator is made using glass in order to allow for unobstructed views of the ancient temple.
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Speaking to The Associated Press, PM Mitsotakis says that the project was funded by Onassis Foundation, and would not have been possible without their support. The story further quotes the Prime Minister as saying, “This is a project for the whole world and, under normal circumstances, it should unite us all.”
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Notably, the previous pathways which date back to 1960s were rendered dilapidated by excessive visitor influx, and in turn, posed a threat to tourists. It is believed that the Acropolis Hill itself was first inhabited 6,000 years ago, with the marble temples, Parthenon, and Erechtheion being rebuilt later in the fifth century. Till 19th century, it served as a fortress but now stands tall as a tourist destination. The ancient citadel gained the UNESCO World Heritage Site status in 1987.
While the tourist spot is currently closed due to the ongoing pandemic—despite reopening temporarily earlier—it is expected to reopen on December 14 when the country will be lifting its restrictions.
Related: A Region Ripe For Discovery: Thessaloníki, Northern Greece