Hard Rock commemorates Athenian casino's groundbreaking

The Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Athens was dedicated at a groundbreaking ceremony that was attended by Hard Rock International. 

A commemorative shovel party was held at the Hellinikon Airport prior to the main event, which was attended by executives from Hard Rock International, GEK Terna Group, the Greek government, political figures, and local community leaders at the Hellinikon Experience Centre. 

The City of Dreams, located in Cyprus, off the coast of continental Europe, is rumoured to be the first integrated resort in continental Europe; the site is set to open in 2027 and will supposedly feature a gaming floor, entertainment venue, meeting space, and more.  

Approximately 1,500 slot machines and 180 table games will make up the casino. 

A total of 3,000 people will be employed in the project's construction and ongoing operations, and the estimated cost is €1.5 billion ($1.65 billion). 

Hard Rock International chairman Jim Allen made the following statement: "Today is a very special day as we celebrate this momentous occasion to bring our unique brand entertainment to Athens.". 

"We are grateful to all the political leaders, our partners at Gek Terna and the people of Athens for supporting us and this project." 

Chairman and CEO of Gek Terna Group, George Peristeris, added: "We are delighted that in cooperation with a world leader in this sector, Hard Rock International, we are realising an investment much higher than its already significant nominal value, offering Greece a development project that will be a reference point for our country's tourism product internationally, will offer employment to thousands of people and yield significant revenues to the national budget.  

As is the case with all of our investments, this one will have a significant domestic added value. No longer is the Hellinikon Integrated Resort Complex an aspiration, goal, or promise. This project is now under construction, which demonstrates that we follow through on our promises.