The Schliemann-Mela Mansion on Panepistimiou Street in Athens, Greece is undergoing a 36-million-euro renovation to become a luxury hotel.
The mansion was built by Heinrich Schliemann in the 1880s-1890s and designed by acclaimed German architect Ernst Ziller,.
In a press release on March 31, Mitsis Hotels announced they had leased the building for a 35-year period with a right to extend by ten additional years.
“With 45 years of experience in the hospitality industry, Mitsis Hotels Group will utilise the property in the most optimal and effective way to benefit the Greek State and the Greek economy, investing significant funds for the maintenance, renovation and preservation of the character of the historic building, aiming to highlight the unique experience of modern Athens to visitors,” Managing Director, Stavros Mitsis, said.
The historical ‘Ideal’ movie theatre, founded in 1921, is also housed in the building.
Campaigners have raised concerns about the renovations, insisting that the theatre should continue its operation as one of the last strongholds for cinema culture in the heart of Athens.
