What I can see

The Hilton Hotel is an emblematic building of Athens. It occupies an entire block, without leaving any of the property unoccupied –in violation of building regulations– and has even occupied part of Vas. Sofias Avenue for car parking outside the front entrance. Putting aside the massive reactions to its construction, the Hilton remains a distinct modern building with a few classic elements. On its northwest side, there is a Greek touch: an artistic composition by Giannis Moralis made with Pentelic marble, inspired by antiquity. The concave shape of the building makes its volume seem less rigid. 

What I can't see

The construction of the hotel was completed in violation of building regulations, following backdoor deliberations between the company and the country’s political leadership. It provoked a huge reaction both in Greece and abroad, because apart from the fact that massive buildings were prohibited within direct view of the Acropolis, the Hilton was, according to several newspapers of the time, an ugly 54-metre tall mass between Lycabettus, Hymettus and the Acropolis. Foreign media called its construction vandalism and a show of disrespect for Greek culture. The construction of the hotel in the city centre and its volume made it the first post-war status symbol with economic and political undercurrents. 

Info

• Address: 46 V. Sofias Av.
• Postal Code : 11528
• Phone: +30 210 7281000
• Website: http://www.hiltonathens.gr

Bibliography