Extreme temperatures across Greece on Wednesday, 22 July 2026, have triggered a ‘red alert’ for the safe operation of archaeological sites nationwide. With the heatwave pushing temperatures to 43°C in Crete, the Knossos archaeological site has implemented a temporary suspension of operations for the second consecutive day.
Midday Closure, Evening Reopening
As scheduled, access to the site was halted at noon and is expected to resume at 5:00 PM, once heat conditions are forecast to begin easing.
Health Risks Prompt Emergency Measures
The exceptionally high temperatures have made emergency protective measures essential for visitor safety. On Tuesday afternoon (21 July 2026), two visitors reportedly fainted due to the intense heat on the island.
According to reports from neakriti.gr, a woman in her mid-50s who had visited Knossos experienced severe discomfort and lost consciousness. She was first treated at the site’s on-site medical office before being transferred to the on-duty hospital for precautionary examinations.