Greece's Ministry of Culture has ordered the closure of the Acropolis, one of the country’s most significant historical attractions, for five hours starting from noon on July 17th, CNN reports.

This measure puts tourists from around the world at a disadvantage as they visit the Parthenon, the temple dedicated to the goddess Athena on the sacred hill of the ancient city. They are now required to wait in line from the early hours of the day.

"We did it and got out quickly, and now we're heading to air-conditioned places with a bit more beverages and we'll enjoy the day", said Toby Dunlap, who came from Pennsylvania to visit the tourist site. "But it’s hot up there, really hot. If you’re not prepared, you’ll sweat".

The heatwave originates from Africa and, according to meteorologists, will continue until July 21th. Temperatures are expected to reach a high of 43 degrees Celsius.

The problems caused by high temperatures are not limited to Greece. In Italy, two firefighters have died while extinguishing a fire in the Basilicata region in the south, authorities announced.

Officials have added Palermo, Sicily, to the list of 13 Italian cities with a severe heat warning. Elderly people in the city of Verona have been urged to stay indoors, while sprinklers have been installed to cool passersby.

Extreme temperatures have even caused problems in Rome. Officials at the city’s zoo have announced plans to provide ice for the animals over the weekend, when temperatures are expected to reach 38 degrees Celsius.