The Ministry of Culture is proceeding with the restoration and repurposing of the former “Xenia” building in Mycenae, transforming it into a mixed-use facility to house performance venues for ancient drama productions by the National Theater, the State Theater of Northern Greece, and the Greek National Opera, all of which are based at the House of the Atreides, as well as a ticket office and refreshment area operated by the Organization for the Management and Development of Cultural Resources. The project calls for the restoration, remodeling, and comprehensive functional upgrade of the “Xenia” into a modern, accessible, and energy-efficient building.

The project aims to enhance the visitor experience at the archaeological site of Mycenae, which is located immediately adjacent to the building, while offering a spectacular view of the Argolic Plain. After it was abandoned in the early 1990s, the building has suffered damage from natural causes, moisture, and vandalism, with the result that it is considered inoperable and requires repair in order to be adapted to meet modern operational requirements.

The project involves the comprehensive restoration and functional upgrade of the building, including reinforcement of the structural framework, reconstruction of the interior spaces, installation of modern electrical and mechanical systems, and the creation of new spaces for the public and staff, while respecting the building’s original architectural character. At the same time, the project ensures full accessibility for people with disabilities, the autonomous and smooth operation of the various functions, the energy retrofit of the building, and the gentle revitalization of the surrounding area with the necessary supporting infrastructure. The property, with a total area of 5,123 square meters, is now owned by the Ministry of Culture.

The building, with a floor area of 565 square meters, is spread over two levels and features a landscaped roof terrace on the upper level. The “Xenia Mycenae” pavilion was one of the first buildings constructed by the Greek National Tourism Organization (EOT) in the 1950s, designed by architect Kimon Laskari (1951). The facility is located on the road connecting the Acropolis of Mycenae with the village, approximately 700 meters from the archaeological site and the Treasury of Atreus. The building’s location was chosen with particular care so as not to obstruct the view of the archaeological site. Its architecture, based on polygonal stonework and simple, modern lines, blends seamlessly with the landscape.