ATHENS, Greece -- As temperatures climb, a ubiquitous sight is emerging across Athens: a sea of hats bobbing along the paths leading to ancient sites like the Acropolis. Kiosks and stores in the city center have piled their outdoor stands high with straw boaters, Panama hats, baseball caps, and bucket hats as more tourists seek protection from the relentless sun.
The Acropolis, which welcomed a record 4.6 million visitors in 2023, often sees visitors spending hours under mid-30s Celsius (mid-90s Fahrenheit) temperatures with limited shade. Even a carriage horse near the monument has been seen sporting a custom-made bucket hat designed with ear holes.
"You need a hat. I’m already red as it is," said Australian tourist Jack Yosif, wearing a black baseball cap. "It’s a bit more of a common thing nowadays, and people are a bit more aware."
Scorching temperatures did not deter a record 38 million visitors to Greece last year. The combination of extreme heat and high visitor numbers, which can mean limited access to shaded areas during peak hours, is increasing the urgency for sun protection.
Greek health organizations have noted a growing awareness regarding the dangers of ultraviolet exposure and the risk of heat stroke. Red Cross volunteers at the Acropolis distribute kits containing sunscreen, water, informational leaflets, and red caps.
At Syntagma Square, kiosk owner Konstantinos Mallios has observed a rise in hat sales in recent years. His offerings range from stylish and souvenir models priced up to 20 euros ($24) to more basic options for 6 euros. Mass-produced hats made from compressed paper pulp are also available.
More elaborate options are also in demand. In her workshop, hatmaker Lisa Sarigiannidou crafts straw braids into boaters using traditional presses and molds. Her handmade hats start at around 50 euros, with more intricate designs exceeding 100 euros.
"People’s attitudes toward hats have changed," Sarigiannidou said. "In the past, when a young woman tried on a hat and looked at herself in the mirror, she usually laughed. Now they try them on seriously … and they wear them straight out the door."