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Transforming an Abandoned Greek Airport into a Stunning Coastal Park

Stephanie Cherry05 mins

The Ellinikon Metropolitan Park: A Vision for Athens

The Ellinikon Metropolitan Park, set to begin construction in 2023, is a groundbreaking initiative in the heart of Athens. Covering an expansive 600 acres, this park is poised to be a vital playground and cultural center for residents and visitors alike. Designed by the acclaimed US architecture firm Sasaki, the park aims to provide essential green spaces for the Greek capital.

An Urban Oasis

This ambitious project will introduce a variety of features designed to promote recreation and enjoyment:

  • A public beach
  • Sports facilities
  • Outdoor theaters
  • Diverse dining options
  • Playgrounds
  • A sculpture park
In 2023, work is set to begin on the Ellinikon Metropolitan Park, a 600-acre park, playground and cultural center on the coast of Athens.
In 2023, work is set to begin on the Ellinikon Metropolitan Park, a 600-acre park, playground, and cultural center on the coast of Athens. Designed by US architecture firm Sasaki, the design aims to provide much-needed green space to the Greek metropolis.

Revitalizing Space

Located south of Athens’ bustling city center, the park will breathe new life into the site of the former Ellinikon International Airport, which served as a vibrant gateway to Greece until its decommissioning in 2001. The project will renovate the landscape significantly, transforming unused land into a lively hub for community engagement and relaxation.

The park will include a public beach, sports venues, outside theaters, food and drink venues, playgrounds, and a sculpture park.

History Meets Nature

Since the airport’s closure, the area has remained neglected, except for its use during the 2004 Summer Olympic Games. However, this project aims to preserve elements of the past while promoting ecological sustainability. Over 300,000 square feet of concrete and tarmac from old runways will be repurposed, showcasing a commitment to reducing carbon emissions throughout the park’s development.

More than 300,000 square feet of concrete and tarmac from old runways will be repurposed for paving and benches in the new park.
More than 300,000 square feet of concrete and tarmac from old runways will be repurposed for paving and benches in the new park, helping to reduce the carbon emissions generated by the development.

Innovative Features

The Ellinikon Metropolitan Park will also feature a 3.7-acre lake, repurposed from the former Olympic kayak venue. This lake will provide recreational opportunities while addressing water scarcity by collecting and storing stormwater.

The architects collaborated closely with Greek plant nurseries on the project, sourcing native seed mixes that will thrive in the park.

A Focus on Ecology

Furthermore, the architects have collaborated with local nurseries to ensure the park’s landscaping includes native seed mixes that are not only beautiful but ecologically beneficial. In total, over 31,000 trees from 86 different species are to be planted, enhancing biodiversity.

The site borders the Mediterranean Sea, but the waterfront has long been inaccessible to Athenians.
The site borders the Mediterranean Sea, but the waterfront has long been inaccessible to Athenians looking for a coastal day out.

Transforming the Waterfront

Soon, the area will transform into a stunning 1-kilometer-long public beach with amenities such as sun loungers and watersports. Moreover, an adjoining marina will facilitate easy access by boat, making the waterfront an inviting destination for all.

Soon it will be transformed into a 1-kilometer-long public beach.
Soon it will be transformed into a 1-kilometer-long public beach with sun loungers and watersports, and an adjoining marina will make the area easily accessible by boat.


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