What I can see

This was a hotel owned by Ioannis Bagas, from whom the “twin” Bageion hotel took its name. It was designed by Ernst Ziller. It is a work of late classicism, the top floor was added later (after 1920) and has a characteristic decoration with deep red surfaces. Moreover, the building had a glass-covered central atrium, around which its functional spaces were developed, a new architectural feature for the time (late 19th century).

What I can't see

It operated as an A-class hotel, with 68 rooms. The customers were mainly wealthy merchants from the province. Before the construction of the top floor, it was crowned by statues. During WWII, it was commandeered by the Germans. During the Greek civil war, British soldiers caused serious damage to the building and used its furniture as fuel. After the war, the hotel declined.

Info

• Address: 19 Omonoia Sq. & Athinas St.

Bibliography