The international architectural award “World’s Most Beautiful Hotel Exterior” was bestowed upon THE DOLLI at UNESCO’s headquarters in Paris.
Now on the list of the world's most beautiful hotels is the luxurious hotel The Dolli at Acropolis in the heart of Athens.
The award
The Athenian pride of the Grecotel hotel chain is the only building in Greece and the first hotel in the country to receive the World Title «Special Exterior Award» at the Prix Versailles Awards at UNESCO headquarters in Paris.
THE DOLLI was selected from a rigorous shortlist of finalists from 31 countries, and was praised for its majestic architecture and its unique fusion of history and contemporary design.
After the award ceremony, which took place at UNESCO headquarters in Paris, the hotel's entrance on Mitropoleos Street is now adorned with the special honorary plaque, marking the visitor's passage into a building where the city's architectural history meets the aesthetic vision for tomorrow and cultural heritage embraces contemporary creativity.
The history
In the mid-1920s, the iconic building was designed by the distinguished architect Andreas Kriezis, who later transformed the Royal Palace of Athens into today's Parliament. Kriezis designed a magnificent architectural landmark: a blend of eclecticism and neoclassicism, with rich elements from different eras. Although the structure remained, its character changed from the mid-1930s, when it was converted into a fabric store.
In 2016, Mari N. Daskalantonaki undertook the investment and the responsibility to transform the 100-year-old derelict mansion into a vibrant hospitality space and led the extensive, seven-year restoration, so that what began as an iconic residence today stands as a symbol of the city's architectural renaissance.
The vision was realized with absolute respect for the building's architectural identity, while at the same time integrating contemporary approaches to design and hospitality.
Today
THE DOLLI's international distinction constitutes for the GRECOTEL group recognition of its longstanding effort to showcase Greece's tourism offering and Athens as a global destination where history, art, and contemporary luxury come together uniquely.
Moreover, it underscores its commitment to the protection and promotion of the cultural heritage of the Greek capital, while at the same time offering visitors an experience that combines historical depth with contemporary elegance.
Mari N. Daskalantonaki, Chief Executive Officer of the Grecotel Group, stated: «The recognition of THE DOLLI as the most beautiful hotel in the world makes us proud and commits us to continue investing in strengthening the bond between culture, architecture, and tourism, creating an immersive experience for our guests and added value for the city of cities, our Athens. It's an expression of gratitude to beauty – Kallos in ancient Greek, which has always been our guide.»
