Skip to main content
New European Bauhaus
Project

Acropolis more accessible to all

A monument reborn! Or, how light and enhanced accessibility can make an ancient landmark even more beautiful, sustainable and inclusive.

Acropolis more accessible to all © European Union
Acropolis more accessible to all
© European Union, 2021

A monument reborn! Or, how light and enhanced accessibility can make an ancient landmark even more beautiful, sustainable and inclusive. ? ?

"Acropolis more accessible to all" is a project that did just that: provide equal access and sustainability by renewing the symbolism of one of the world's most important monuments and adapting it to the modern era.

The proposal was submitted for the New European Bauhaus awards in the category of "Preserved and transformed cultural heritage."

Launched in September 2020, the project includes the installation of a new state-of-the-art inclined elevator and the refurbishment of two walkways. The programme also aimed to change all utilities and services, such as improved lighting, lightning protection, vulnerability analysis & risk management on the site.

The Hellenic Ministry of Culture & Sports and the Onassis Foundation commissioned the project — a premier example of a public-private partnership.

The interventions undertaken in the environs of the Acropolis strive both to improve functionality and highlight the aesthetics of the monumental complex.

Old walkways were replaced with new artificial stone pavement, thus making it accessible to wheelchair users and anyone with limited mobility. The material used has only 12% cement and is equivalent to the supplemental composite used to preserve monuments.

As for the lighting infrastructure, 609 cutting-edge, high colour fidelity LED lighting fixtures have been installed. The new lighting not only delivers energy savings of more than 65% but, for the first time, meets the aesthetic criteria set by the structures themselves and distinguishes the monuments on the citadel from the fortification walls.

As a living icon withstood the test of time, the Acropolis's contemporary profile optimises involvement with the cultural sphere, fosters a sense of belonging, equality & dialogue, and represents the very essence of culturally sustainable development ??

The renovations serve as an example for making the best use of cultural heritage while adhering to sustainability, viability & inclusion.

? © European Union
#EUGreenDeal #EuropeForCulture #DesignForAll