Acropolis Disabled Access: Use of the Acropolis Elevator
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A new elevator has made Acropolis accessible to visitors with disabilities once again. More specifically, a cutting-edge wheelchair lift along with new paths specially designed for physically challenged individuals have recently been inaugurated to help travelers reach Acropolis Hill in the most effortless way possible.
In this article, we’ll go over everything you need to know about using the new Acropolis elevator as well as the new disabled routes.
The Νew Elevator of the Acropolis
For many years, visiting Acropolis Hill was nearly impossible for thousands of travelers with disabilities.
Up until 2017, disabled visitors could make use of a construction site elevator which was installed on the side of the famous hill not long before the start of the 2004 Olympic Games.
Visitors arriving in Acropolis later on, however, were often very disappointed to find out that the elevator was under maintenance due to small damages caused by the wind and rain of the winter months.
The need for a new elevator became even more apparent in the following years, during which, the lift was more frequently closed down than functioning.
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Eventually, in 2019, the Greek state and the Onassis Foundation agreed to work together on upgrading the infrastructure of the Acropolis in order to provide easier access to people with disabilities. Their plans included:
- The construction of a modern slope elevator in the place of the old one
- The creation of new disabled routes on and around Acropolis Hill
- The supply of special vehicles to facilitate access to the elevator
Constructing the elevator was a difficult technical procedure as it’s the only of its kind in the world whose angle is almost 90 degrees.
It can carry weight up to 1300 kilograms and the ride from the bottom to the top of the hill takes about 32 seconds.
Video Courtesy: Onassis Foundation On YouTube
Please note that the elevator is strictly available to disabled visitors only. Also, we strongly recommend that you call one day before your arrival to make sure that you will be able to make use of the elevator.
For any questions, you can always call: +30 210 3214172 or +30 210 9238470
Entrance to the Acropolis is free for people with disabilities, but if you need extra tickets you can book them online from here:
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New Disabled Routes at the Acropolis
After arriving at the top of the Acropolis Hill with the wheelchair lift, physically challenged visitors can use two new disabled routes on the north and east sides of the Parthenon to move around and enjoy the majestic archaeological site.
These new routes replaced older ones that were worn out to cover a total area of about 2500 square meters (approximately 500 meters long and 4 meters wide) and make access to the monuments more comfortable.
What’s more, the new disabled routes are laid on the ancient Panathenaic Way and highlight the ancient road in a very special way. The routes are planned to extend even further during the second phase of the project which is expected to start soon.
Lastly, there are already two 6-seat vehicles in place, doing trips from Dionysiou Areopagitou Street as well as from the top of the hill to and from the elevator to facilitate access to the lift.
For hotels that are located close to the Acropolis and the Parthenon read our guide with the best hotels near Acropolis
Frequent Questions About Disabled Access to the Acropolis Hill
Where is the new Acropolis elevator located?
On the northwest side of the Acropolis. The easiest way to get there is by using one of the designated vehicles for people with mobility impairments. The vehicle departs from Dionysiou Areopagitou Street.
How do you get to Dionysiou Areopagitou Street?
You can take the metro and get off at Acropolis station which is only a few minutes away from the entrance of Acropolis Hill.
Is the elevator open all year round?
Yes, the Acropolis elevator is fully operational throughout the year.
Are there inaccessible parts on Acropolis Hill?
Yes, even though the new disabled routes have been laid out, there are still parts too uneven to be reached by a wheelchair or by people with impaired mobility.
Is there an accessible restroom at Acropolis?
Yes. You can find a restroom for people with disabilities both at the foot and the top of Acropolis Hill.
Is there a discounted ticket to the Acropolis for people with disabilities?
Entrance to the Acropolis is free for people with disabilities.
Are the disabled routes wide enough?
Yes. The new disabled routes are wide enough for any kind of wheelchair and they are also equipped with bars on the sides.
What is the best time to go up Acropolis Hill for people with disabilities?
If you are visiting the Acropolis in the winter, make sure to go up the hill around noon when the weather is a bit warmer. On the other hand, if you are visiting during summertime, make sure to go as early as possible to escape the heat and the crowds.
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