Academia of Athens, Autograph Collection

Autograph Collection Hotels, Marriott International's dynamic portfolio of more than 170 independent hotels and resorts around the world, today announced the opening of its newest addition, Academia of Athens. Inspired by ancient Greek philosophers' wisdom, historical landmarks, and the vibrant culture of the contemporary city, Academia of Athens combines the heritage of the city with a bold and modern exterior.

Partnering with global design and architecture firm, HOK, the hotel features 60 guestrooms and suites, a restaurant bar, lounge bar, and spa, each offering visual cues from ancient Greek scholar Plato's Three Orders: Science, Philosophy and Art, with these principles brought to life throughout various spaces within the hotel.

Embodying the first order; Science, the lobby's elegant glass doors open onto the vibrant city. Balanced geometry is featured throughout the lobby space, and eyes are drawn to an embossed brass Socrates quote with a marble back drop: "I am not Athenian or Greek, but a citizen of the world".

The order of Art is brought to life in the hotel's bars and restaurant. Overlooking the Acropolis, the rooftop Aether Restaurant Bar will undoubtedly be the hotel's most vibrant space, acting as a place for guests and locals to relax throughout the day. Visitors can enjoy a drink at the bookshelf-inspired bar, lounge on banquette sofas and daybeds, or observe the night sky thought the bar's telescope.

Plato Lounge Bar, open all day, will be for those looking to both socialise and unwind. Specialising in Gins from around the world and cocktails with a twist, Plato's expert mixology team use natural Greek herbs, citrus and fruits in its imaginative creations.

Green and gold accents underscore the neutral colour palette of Academia of Athens' bistronomic restaurant, Symposium Restaurant, blending fine dining with casual sophistication. The menu has been expertly curated by a Michelin awarded winning team to include ingredients and delicacies traced back to ancient Greece.

Each Autograph Collection hotel curates its immersive guest experience honouring its unique story. Once a week at Academia of Athens, guests are invited to become part of the "Dialogue Soirees". Echoing Plato's writings, which are universally known as Plato's Dialogues, the intellectually stimulating and playful series will give guests the opportunity to exchange ideas, connect and discuss universal notions like friendship, ethics or love.

The last of Plato's orders, Philosophy, is realised in the private guest spaces in the hotel. The guestrooms and suites have been reimagined as private libraries, with custom desks that encourage travellers to discover their inner philosopher. Brass light fixtures and tufted upholstered furniture evoke the luxury of a private library and tempt visitors to relax.

Designer HOK has effortlessly weaved a sophisticated feel throughout the hotel's décor. A carved marble reception desk greets guests as they enter the hotel spa, Pnoe Wellness Center, before they are invited to enjoy the private treatment rooms, sauna and fitness centre. A dramatically lit pool anchors the space, complemented by a blank wall that serves as a display for cinematic projections to add a sense of movement and fluidity.

Academia of Athens is located at the heart of the historic quarter, just a short walk away from Ancient Greek sites including the Theatre of Dionysus, Temple of Hephaestus or the Temple of Olympian Zeus.

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