THE DOLLI: Crowned

THE DOLLI has been awarded the prestigious international architectural distinction of “World’s Most Beautiful Hotel Exterior” at UNESCO Headquarters in Paris. Located in the heart of Athens, the luxury hotel has been officially recognized among the world’s most beautiful hotels.

THE AWARD

The Athenian jewel of Grecotel Hotels & Resorts is the only building in Greece, and the first hotel in the country, to receive the Global “Special Prize for Exterior” at the Prix Versailles awards, held at UNESCO’s headquarters in Paris.

Selected from a highly competitive shortlist of 70 outstanding projects across 31 countries, THE DOLLI was commended for its impressive architecture and seamless blend of classical elegance with contemporary design. The hotel’s entrance on Mitropoleos Street now proudly bears the honorary Prix Versailles plaque, marking its transformation of a historical neoclassical building into a masterpiece of refined aesthetics - one designed to celebrate both past and future, where cultural heritage and modern creativity exist in harmony.

THE HISTORY

Originally designed in the mid-1920s by the esteemed architect Andreas Kriezis, who later transformed the Royal Palace of Athens into the Greek Parliament, this iconic building stands as a landmark of architectural significance. Kriezis envisioned a magnificent structure that embodied eclecticism and neoclassicism, infused with rich influences from multiple eras. Although the building remained intact, by the mid-1930s it had been converted into a textile department store.

In 2016, Mari N. Daskalantonakis led the ambitious effort to transform the then-abandoned 100-year-old mansion into a vibrant space of hospitality. Spearheading a comprehensive seven-year restoration, the historic residence was reimagined as a symbol of architectural renewal in Athens. The transformation was carried out with deep respect for the building’s original identity, while embracing modern approaches to the concepts of design and hospitality.

TODAY

THE DOLLI continues to receive international recognition, making it a testament to Grecotel’s longstanding commitment to highlighting the value of authentic Greek ‘filoxenia’ (hospitality) and positioning Athens as a global destination where history, art, and modern luxury intertwine. It also reinforces the group’s dedication to preserving and promoting the cultural heritage of the Greek capital. More than just a place to stay, THE DOLLI is a space where guests are immersed into a world of beauty, where sun-drenched terraces, art-adorned interiors, and its breathtaking exterior whisper the story of Athens itself.

Mari N. Daskalantonakis, CEO of the Grecotel Group, commented: “The recognition of THE DOLLI as the world’s most beautiful hotel fills us with pride and motivates us to continue investing in the connection between culture, architecture, and tourism, creating immersive experiences for our guests and contributing lasting value to Athens. It is a tribute to beauty, ‘Kallos’ in ancient Greek, which has always been our guiding principle.”

GRECOTEL HOTELS & RESORTS TO LIVE