Athens landmarks deserted amid virus fears

(22 Mar 2020) Athens landmarks, usually crowded with tourists and locals especially on a Sunday, were deserted following a government-ordered shutdown of archaeological sites and pleas that people stay home to help contain the spread of the new coronavirus.
The ceremonial Sunday changing of the guard at parliament took place without the usual fanfare of a band and massive audience.
Monastiraki Square, usually jam-packed on Sunday mornings, was empty.
The popular restaurant and cafe-lined streets of Plaka were shuttered.
The Acropolis, Roman Agora, Temple of Olympian Zeus and other ancient sites were also closed to visitors, following government orders.
On Saturday, the government said the number of detected COVID-19 cases in Greece rose by 35, over the previous day, to 530.
Three additional deaths brought the total number of fatalities to 13.
For most people, the COVID-19 illness causes only mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough.
For some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness, including pneumonia.
The vast majority of people recover from the new virus.

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