In a groundbreaking ceremony held on December 22, 2023, Hard Rock International, in collaboration with the GEK TERNA Group, marked the initiation of an ambitious €1.5 billion project—the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Athens.
The celebratory event, taking place at the historic Hellinikon Airport, witnessed the convergence of Hard Rock International executives, GEK TERNA Group representatives, Greek government officials, and local community leaders, symbolizing a significant leap forward for Athens’s entertainment and tourism landscape.
Scheduled to open its doors in 2027, the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Athens aspires to be a trailblazer as the first integrated resort of its kind in continental Europe.
Beyond the glitz and glamour, this resort aims to be an economic powerhouse, fueling both entertainment and tourism in the city.
The Chairman of Hard Rock International, Jim Allen, expressed his gratitude to the political leaders, partners at GEK Terna, and the citizens of Athens for their unwavering support.
“Today is a very special day as we celebrate this momentous occasion to bring our unique brand of world-class entertainment to Athens,” said Allen. “We are grateful to all the political leaders, our partners at Gek Terna, and the people of Athens for supporting us and this project.”
The resort promises a diverse array of offerings, including an upscale hotel, a world-class gaming floor, a premier meeting and convention space, a state-of-the-art entertainment venue, internationally renowned food and beverage options, a luxurious Rock Spa®, a Pool Complex, and a high-end retail promenade.
However, the cherry on top for fitness enthusiasts is the inclusion of the Rock® Spa and Body Rock Fitness facilities, showcasing a commitment to holistic well-being within the lavish confines of the resort.
The construction project is not merely an extravagant endeavor but a significant contributor to the local economy.
It is expected to generate 3,000 construction jobs and create 3,000 permanent positions, fostering economic growth in Athens and contributing positively to Greece’s overall economic landscape.
The integrated resort complex aims to become a symbol of Greece’s tourism product on the international stage.
Inspired by Athens’s rich heritage and the breathtaking Mediterranean landscape, it serves as a testament to the shared vision of Hard Rock International, GEK TERNA Group, the Greek government, and Lamda Development.
The collaboration seeks to transform the historical Hellinikon Airport into a world-class redevelopment that will enhance the city and elevate Greece’s tourism industry.
George Peristeris, Chairman and CEO of GEK TERNA Group, highlighted the significance of the project, stating, “The Integrated Resort Complex in Hellinikon is no longer a promise, a vision, or a plan. It is a project that is already being built, proving in practice that we implement our commitments.”
As construction progresses, the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Athens promises not only to be a magnet for gaming and entertainment enthusiasts but also a haven for those seeking a holistic wellness experience—a fitness oasis set against the backdrop of Athens’s rich cultural legacy and the allure of the Mediterranean landscape.
