Accessibility Improvements at the Acropolis in Athens, Greece
One of the world’s most iconic sites, the famous Acropolis in Athens, Greece, is enhancing accessibility for travelers. This ancient citadel, renowned for its historical significance, is undergoing significant improvements, including the installation of a new lift and updating walkways to better accommodate individuals using wheelchairs and those with mobility impairments.
Enhancements for Accessibility
The site’s steep hill has presented challenges for visitors over the years. Although there was an existing lift, it frequently malfunctioned, and the surrounding pathways had fallen into disrepair. With the new lift on the north face of the hill and the installation of artificial stone paths—spanning nearly 530 meters and measuring almost four meters in width—access to the Acropolis is set to become much more user-friendly. The previous concrete paths, constructed in the 1960s, had been worn down significantly by the footwear of millions of tourists over the decades.
Government Initiative to Promote Equality
This initiative was announced by Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis on December 3, in commemoration of the International Day of People with Disabilities. Funding for this essential project came from the Onassis Foundation, a private organization dedicated to the promotion of Greek culture.
Symbols of Progress
‘By installing a wheelchair platform lift, we solve a practical but also a symbolic issue: we stress the importance of equal access for all,’ stated Antonis Papadimitriou, president of the Onassis Foundation. ‘We are also renewing the illumination of the Acropolis as a small gesture of respect to the monument and to the archaeologists that protect it in all of our names.’
A Historical Landmark
The history of the Acropolis extends back to 4000 BC, evolving through various roles, from a religious center to a royal residence, and even a place of mythological significance. Many of the structures that currently stand date back to the Golden Age of Athens, commencing around 460 BC.
Current Status
Due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, the Acropolis is temporarily closed. However, it is anticipated to reopen on December 14, coinciding with the lifting of the national lockdown in Greece.
