Hard Rock International (HRI) held an event in Athens, Greece, on June 22 to ceremoniously mark the start of construction of the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Athens. HRI has partnered with Greek business conglomerate Gek Terna Group on the project.

Hard Rock Athens is being built in the area of the Athens Riviera within the Ellinikon development. HRI said in a statement that construction would begin in early 2023, with a goal to open in 2026.

Hard Rock Athens will include a 1,000 room luxury hotel, a gaming floor with 200 tables and 2,000 gaming machines, meeting and convention space, a 3,000 seat Hard Rock Live entertainment venue (with a 7,500 seat outdoor-extension option) and many restaurant and retail options, among other amenities.

“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,” Jim Allen, HRI chairman and CEO of Seminole Gaming, said in a statement. “This development will bring over 3,000 permanent jobs to the people of Greece and we look forward to bringing our unique brand of entertainment and providing an unparalleled experience for guests of all ages.”

HRI said the design of the project was inspired by basic Greek elements such as the sea, the arts and ancient mythology, combined with the modern requirements of architecture. Open spaces, gardens and water features are key elements of the project’s design, HRI said, with a large amount of green open space. The development’s three-level tower uses nautical references, incorporating waves, sails and a lighthouse in its design.

The project also includes the highest outdoor rooftop terrace in Athens, HRI said, with a rooftop pool deck that consists of bars, a spa and fitness center.

Hard Rock Athens is the latest addition to HRI’s overseas portfolio, with venues in over 70 countries spanning 265 locations. The Seminole Tribe is the parent entity of HRI. More is at hardrock.com.