One of the largest and most beautiful urban houses in old Athens, whose history is associated with the Kampas family and later with a well-known banker, has been transformed into a boutique hotel that will open its doors in a few days.
It is one of the most historic buildings in our city. According to records, it is likely to have been built in 1897. Initially used as the residence of the Karavasili family, it was later purchased by the Kampas family.
In 1922, the building was abandoned by the specific business family due to the devaluation of the area. Eleftherios Venizelos built dozens of shacks around and opposite the mansion to accommodate refugees from Asia Minor, temporarily “robbing” Adrianou Street of its tranquility and charm.
Until this time, the residence at 3 Adrianou Street in Thissio experienced glory and grandeur. It was considered one of the largest and most beautiful urban houses in old Athens.
Carriages came and went, coachmen groomed the horses in the courtyard, servants, maids, nannies, and cooks went up and down the wooden stairs, receptions, soirées, and teas were held daily, as recounted by neighbors who experienced them and those who heard about them from their parents.
Then came the decline. From 1942 to 1944, the building was requisitioned by the Italians and turned into a barracks, and in 1945, for about two years, it served as a shelter for vagabonds and beggars. In 1946, it was seized by the Bank of Greece, and in 1952, it was purchased at auction by the Budros brothers, who installed the factory of the well-known ZAMA zippers.
In 1986, the factory was abandoned, and the building remained completely derelict. Six years later, it was rented by the entrepreneur Raptakis, who used the ground floor to establish the very fashionable restaurant Barolo, where the affluent of Athens dined. In 1996, the International Art Center Athenaeum leased the building, organizing unique musical evenings and transforming the space into a Conservatory. It was also the venue for the internationally renowned competition, the Grand Prix Maria Callas, dedicated to the great Greek Diva.
The premises, which were appropriately configured, included two concert halls, a music library, and a large number of individual classrooms for music theory and piano, strings, wind, percussion, vocal, opera, jazz, traditional music, etc.
Additionally, many concerts by young artists, Sunday morning musical events, and ‘Grand Prix’ opera performances took place in the premises. The central hall was dominated by the piano and the bust of the unforgettable Maria Callas.
The first week of April, this old urban house opens its doors to the international public, as it has been restored and transformed into one of the atmospheric boutique hotels of Athens.
The former ‘Odeon Athenaeum,’ dedicated to Maria Callas, has become a newly established luxury hotel with 12 suites in the heart of Athens’ historic center.
This modern hotel offers 12 spacious suites with unique views of the Acropolis, the Ancient Agora in Thissio, and the Athens Observatory. On the ground floor of the hotel, there are two modern restaurants, ideal for guests to enjoy Greek cuisine and local wines. The hotel’s location is ideal for those interested in exploring the city’s historic landmarks and museums, as well as those wishing to experience the vibrant nightlife of the capital.
The largest suites, spanning 50 square meters of space, are located on the first floor and offer stunning views of Adrianou Street. These spacious rooms provide a magnificent and luxurious experience. Other suites overlook the courtyard, while some feature balconies with jacuzzis.
The newly established La Divina hotel, with its unique aesthetics and historical value, belongs to Aria Hotels, whose portfolio includes around 70 hotels, villas, and seaside houses. It is part of the powerful business group ‘Libra,’ owned by the Logothetis family.
Libra is a global business group comprising 20 companies primarily focused on aerospace, renewable energy, shipping, real estate, hospitality, and diversified investments. With assets and activities in nearly 60 countries, it harnesses the power of its global network and capabilities to provide expertise and development at scale.
They are familiar with and serve luxurious hospitality flawlessly, crafting their own story based on innovation and modern lifestyle. A few years ago, the Logothetis family purchased an old crystal factory in Beijing, which they transformed back into a high-end hotel in the center of the Chinese capital, the Grace Beijing design hotel, which is a landmark for the art it hosts. ‘Their philosophy is to acquire spaces and transform them, upgrading entire areas,’ claim those who know them.
The La Divina, which has entered their portfolio, now becomes the flagship of the Group. It invites upper-class tourists to visit, stating, ‘Impeccable service and attention to detail characterize your stay, ensuring a truly unforgettable experience in the heart of the Thissio neighborhood of Athens. Whether you’re exploring the charming streets of Thissio, enjoying Greek cuisine at nearby taverns, or simply admiring the stunning views, La Divina promises a classic and luxurious retreat that will leave you with long-lasting memories of your visit to Athens.’
