Acropolis to Get New Disabled-friendly Elevator by Summer

The Acropolis in Athens is set to get a new lift by summer after the Central Archaeological Council (KAS) approved plans for the project which will now enable improved disabled access to the ancient site and popular attraction.

The KAS had agreed last year to replace a repeatedly malfunctioning lift that was installed in 2004 with a new modern and more functional elevator also catering to the needs of disabled visitors.

The council has now given the green light to three studies for the construction of the new elevator which is expected to be completed in four months’ time.

According to Culture Minister Lina Mendoni, the contractor responsible for the project is obligated to complete the works by June 19. “Time is already counting down,” the minister said.

A representative of the Onassis Foundation, which is funding the project, confirmed that the “extremely important” project will be ready in time for the Acropolis Museum’s “birthday” on June 20 provided all studies have been approved.

The new lift meets the requirements and specifications that will allow disability access as well as space for trolleys and a stretcher. The lift station at the Acropolis archaeological site will also be expanded.