The Acropolis in Athens, Greece’s most famous attraction and signature tourism site, re-opened this week in a move a government official called a “pressure release” for Greek citizens and to prepare for an expected restart of tourism in the Mediterranean country in May.

The news comes despite a recent surge of COVID-19 infections and includes the opening of other ancient sites nationwide, although museums remain closed.

A weekend curfew was also relaxed, accompanied by limited opening of other venues like barbershops and hair salons.

“What we are talking about are pressure-release valves. This is to help people comply with restrictions that have been in effect for such a long time,” said Akis Skertsos, a deputy minister for government coordination.

The reopening of ancient sites was announced despite strong reservations from an association of state employees, which warned that “procedures required for secure safety protocols have not been completed.”

Free tests will be made available to all residents of Greece with a social security number before the end of the month, officials said.

The government says that despite the current surge, it expects to open to tourism, a key driver of the economy, in mid-May. Lockdown measures have been in effect since early November.