Greek construction firm Gek Terna Group and Hard Rock International announced they will develop the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Athens. Gek Terna, which was awarded the 30-year concession for the nation’s first integrated casino resort, holds a 49 percent share in the partnership.
Construction will begin early next year and the venue is expected to open in 2026.
This will be Hard Rock’s first investment in a European casino, located on the Athenian Riviera. The facility will offer a three-level tower featuring views of the Acropolis, the sea and Mount Hymettus. The gaming floor will offer 200 tables and 2,000 gaming machines, plus a 1,000-room luxury 5-star hotel with the highest terrace in Athens, including a rooftop pool, bars and fitness center.
Other features will include the 3,000-seat Hard Rock Live entertainment venue, inspired by the ancient Greek amphitheater, as well as dining and shopping along a promenade offering high-end local and international brands, restaurants, bars and lounges.
George Peristeris, chairman and chief executive officer at Gek Terna, said, “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.”
Hard Rock International Chairman Jim Allen added, “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.”
Hard Rock International competed with Mohegan Gaming & Entertainment for the license to manage the casino resort, after originally being excluded from bidding. In 2020, Hard Rock announced it would take the matter to the European Commission.
The Athens casino will bring Hard Rock International’s portfolio to 265 locations in more than 70 countries.
