Greek construction firm GEK TERNA, awarded the 30-year concession for the development of the first Integrated Resort and Casino in Greece, has entered a partnership with Hard Rock International.
GEK TERNA Group, which holds a 49% share, will undertake the construction of the project to start early next year. Hard Rock will be participating for the first time in a casino investment in Europe, as part of The Ellinikon project, Europe’s largest coastal park, to go up along the Athenian Riviera.
Scheduled to open to the public in 2026, the “Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Athens” aims to offer visitors a mix of entertainment, fine dining, luxury 5-star accommodation, outdoor spaces, a world-class gaming floor, expo hall, ball rooms, meeting areas and support spaces, and high-end shopping.
The project will include open spaces, gardens and water features with total green open space covering close to 205,000m2. The three-level main tower will have three different orientations with views to the Acropolis, the sea and Mount Hymettus.
The future Resort and Casino will feature a 15,000m2 casino with 200 tables and 2,000 gaming machines while the tower consists of more than 1,000 guest rooms and suites, totaling almost 3,500 beds. It will also include the highest terrace in Athens, with a rooftop pool deck consisting of bars and the Rock Spa and Body Rock Fitness center.
The 3,000-seat Hard Rock Live theater, inspired by the ancient Greek amphitheater, includes a stage extending to the exterior for outdoor festivals and concerts with an additional 7,500 seats. This casino is the newest addition to Hard Rock International’s portfolio which includes venues in over 70 countries spanning 265 locations.
This development will create a premium tourism spot, expected to offer employment to thousands of people, yield significant revenues to the public sector, and add value to Greece’s brand. Along with Hard Rock we are realizing a private investment of over 1 billion euros, reaffirming our trust in Greece’s prospects and potential.
George Peristeris, Chairman and CEO of GEK TERNA Group
We are thrilled to announce the partnership with GEK TERNA Group and further expand Hard Rock’s reach across the globe in the great City of Athens. This development will bring over 3,000 permanent jobs to the people of Greece and we look forward to bring our unique brand of entertainment and provide an unparalleled experience for guests of all ages.
Jim Allen, Hard Rock International Chairman
