Reviving a Modernist Icon: The Transformation of Kastoria’s Xenia Hotel into a Cultural Landmark

The lakeside city of Kastoria, renowned for its shimmering waters and Byzantine splendor, is currently witnessing a significant cultural renaissance. At the heart of this transformation is the historic Xenia Hotel, a building that has stood as a silent witness to the city’s evolving landscape for decades. It has recently been announced by the Greek Ministry of Culture that this modernist landmark is slated for a comprehensive restoration, destined to serve as a sophisticated extension of the city’s acclaimed Byzantine Museum.

This ambitious project is designed to bridge the gap between Kastoria’s mid-century architectural history and its deep-rooted medieval past. By repurposing a structure that was once the pinnacle of Greek hospitality, the ministry aims to create a multi-functional cultural hub that will draw art enthusiasts and history buffs alike. The revitalization of this site is not merely a construction project; it is a strategic effort to enhance the city’s cultural infrastructure, ensuring that its unique historical assets are preserved for future generations.

The Legacy of the Xenia Program

To understand the significance of this restoration, one must look back at the origins of the Xenia initiative. Launched in the 1950s by the Greek National Tourism Organization (GNTO), the Xenia program was a visionary state-led effort to bolster the nation’s postwar tourism industry. These hotels were characterized by their integration into the natural landscape and their adherence to the principles of modernism. The Kastoria Xenia, constructed in 1953, was among the earliest examples of this movement.

The building was envisioned by the prominent architect Charalambos Sfaellos, working in close collaboration with Marika Zagorisiou. Together, they created a structure that mirrored the elegance of its surroundings while introducing a contemporary aesthetic to the region. Because of its unique design and historical importance, the complex has been officially classified as a monument of modern cultural heritage. Despite its status, the building has remained dormant for over thirty years, enduring the passage of time and the scars of vandalism. Now, under the new redevelopment plan, its architectural integrity is finally being safeguarded.

A Vision for the Byzantine Museum Extension

The primary objective of the restoration is to provide much-needed support to the Byzantine Museum of Kastoria. This institution is globally recognized for its extraordinary collection of portable icons, some of which date back to the 12th century. Due to the immense size and rarity of the collection, the current facilities require additional space to properly display and preserve these treasures. The Xenia complex, spanning approximately 1,600 square meters, offers the perfect solution.

Within the refurbished walls of the former hotel, dedicated areas will be established for the storage of the museum’s permanent collection. Furthermore, the ground floor and upper levels will be adapted to host temporary exhibitions, educational workshops, and high-profile conference events. This transition from a place of lodging to a place of learning reflects a broader trend in European heritage management, where historic buildings are given a “second life” through adaptive reuse.

Funding and Project Timeline

The logistical and financial framework for this endeavor has been firmly established by the Greek government. As part of a larger 10-million-euro cultural development strategy for the region of Kastoria, the necessary resources for the Xenia project have been secured. The technical studies required for the restoration are currently underway and are scheduled for completion by the end of May 2026.

Immediately following the finalization of these studies, the tender process for the construction phase will be initiated. A long-term lease agreement has been reached, granting the Ministry of Culture use of the property for a period of 40 years. While the restoration is a complex undertaking given the building’s current state of decay, the works are expected to be fully concluded within a five-year timeframe. This structured approach ensures that the project remains a cornerstone of the city’s long-term economic and social development strategy.

Strengthening Kastoria’s Cultural Capital

The revitalization of the Xenia Hotel is viewed as a vital component of Kastoria’s future prosperity. It is believed by government officials that by investing in the city’s rich cultural and natural capital, a path toward social cohesion and economic growth can be paved. Kastoria is a city where history is layered, from the Neolithic settlement of Dispilio to the fur-trading wealth of the 18th-century mansions and the spiritual depth of its 70-plus Byzantine churches.

By integrating a modernist monument like the Xenia into the Byzantine circuit, the city offers a more holistic narrative to its visitors. This project is expected to stimulate local tourism, providing a world-class venue for international scholars and travelers who seek to explore the nuances of Greek art and architecture. The focus remains on showcasing the city’s historical assets in a way that respects the past while embracing the modern requirements of a global cultural destination.

Architectural Significance and Modern Adaptation

The adaptation of the 1,600-square-meter complex requires a delicate balance between preservation and modernization. The basement levels, which once housed utility rooms for the hotel, will be converted into climate-controlled storage environments for sensitive artifacts. The ground floor, originally designed for social interaction and dining, will serve as a vibrant public space for exhibitions and conferences.

The architectural language of Sfaellos, characterized by clean lines and functionalism, will be respected throughout the process. It is rare for a building of this era to be so seamlessly integrated into a museum’s ecosystem. The success of this project will likely serve as a blueprint for other “Xenia” properties across Greece that have fallen into disrepair. Through this initiative, the “Xenia” spirit of hospitality is being transformed into a spirit of cultural stewardship, ensuring that the building remains a focal point of the Kastorian skyline for another forty years and beyond.

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