From Derelict Airport to Thriving Coastal Metropolis
The long-abandoned Ellinikon International Airport in Athens, Greece, which has stood silent for much of the 21st century, is undergoing a monumental transformation into a vibrant coastal city. This £7.6 billion project, hailed as Europe's largest urban development, will see residents moving into luxury apartment blocks as early as 2027.
A Historic Site Reimagined
Ellinikon International Airport once welcomed over 10 million passengers annually before its closure in 2001, when operations shifted to the newer Athens International Airport nearby. Originally built in the 1930s, the site has a rich history, including use by Nazi Germany's Luftwaffe during World War 2 and later serving as Athens' primary commercial flight hub for 63 years. It closed due to security and noise concerns, and in recent years, parts deteriorated into unofficial refugee settlements.
Demolition began in July 2020, paving the way for this ambitious redevelopment. The project will transform the vast site—approximately three times the size of Monaco—into a smart, sustainable city designed for modern living.
Key Features of the New Coastal City
The development, led by Lamda Development, includes thousands of new homes, with nine apartment blocks in the Promenade Heights district already nearing completion. These circular and elliptical buildings blend contemporary architecture with everyday living, creating a unique residential experience.
Notable highlights include:
- The Riviera Tower, set to be Greece's tallest building at 200 metres, housing 169 residents across 50 floors.
- A "15-minute city" design, ensuring all essential services are within a short walk or bike ride.
- Extensive green spaces, with 600 acres of parks and open areas out of 6,200 total acres.
- Luxury amenities such as shopping centres, sports facilities, hotels, a casino, and a state-of-the-art marina for yachts.
- A new public beachfront expected to attract up to one million visitors annually, including many British tourists.
Sustainability and Economic Impact
Odisseas Athanasiou, CEO of Lamda Development, emphasises that Ellinikon is Greece's first smart city designed from the outset to be environmentally sustainable and climate-resilient. The project is projected to generate around 85,000 jobs, boosting the local economy.
The development also prioritises healthier living, with plans for a vast park and pedestrian-friendly infrastructure. This transformation marks a significant shift from the site's past, which included hosting events during the 2004 Athens Olympics before falling into neglect.
With completion targeted for 2027, Ellinikon is poised to become a premier destination for residents and tourists alike, blending historical significance with cutting-edge urban design.
