Step into a world where elegance meets greatness, where history whispers its tales through magnificent rooms and graceful ballrooms. Nestled in the heart of Bucharest, the Athénée Palace Hotel stands tall as a timeless icon, bearing witness to over a century of remarkable history and preserving the heritage of Romanian hospitality. Join us on a journey beyond 100 years, as we delve into the captivating story of this legendary establishment.
A Legacy of Distinction
Since its opening in 1914, Athénée Palace has been a symbol of prestige and luxury. The hotel has gracefully withstood the test of time, surviving both world wars and political upheavals, remaining a steadfast emblem of Bucharest. Over the years, it has played host to illustrious guests, dignitaries, and celebrities, engraving its name into the chronicles of history.
Timeless Architecture
Stepping into Athénée Palace building is like opening a window in time. The hotel’s inner architectural beauty blends neoclassical and Art Nouveau styles with contemporary touches, showcasing exquisite craftsmanship and attention to detail.
The grand façade exudes an air of elegance and refinement while its magnificent interior Les Collonnades uncovers the entrance to the national heritage ballroom, Le Diplomate. The ballroom havens a majestic stain glass ceiling and tastefully decorated walls with golden foil accents capturing the essence of a bygone era.
A Hub of History
Throughout its history, Athénée Palace has been a witness to significant events that shaped the nation. The hotel's corridors whispered secrets and hosted clandestine meetings during periods of political turmoil. During World War II, it was a bustling hub for journalists reporting from neutral Romania, strategically positioned at Europe's crossroads.
Its walls hold the echoes of countless legends, blending history with the allure of a luxury establishment. Renowned editor Ernst Latham remarked, "Athénée Palace immediately became renowned in both wars, consistently playing a central role in historical events."
A Chronicle of Intrigue
Baroness Rose de Waldeck, a Newsweek correspondent, stayed at Athénée Palace during Romania's most tumultuous period. Arriving on the day France fell in 1940, she witnessed Romania's seismic shifts, including King Carol II's abdication and the rise of a military-legionary state under Antonescu. She published in 1942 the book "Athénée Palace," where she captured the hotel's pivotal role in wartime Europe.
Her interview with Nazi officer Colonel Johann von Ravenstein, conducted amid wartime chaos, evolved unexpectedly into a poignant love story. Their clandestine meetings at Athénée Palace amidst Nazi occupation added a dramatic layer to the hotel's narrative.
Preserving Heritage, Embracing the Future
InterContinental Athénée Palace Hotel stands as a testament to the timeless allure of the past and the promise of the future. Beyond 100 years, it remains an embodiment of refined elegance, showcasing the heritage and history of Romanian hospitality. From its architectural heritage to its rich legacy and commitment to exceptional service, this iconic establishment continues to captivate and inspire. As we embark on the next chapter of its extraordinary journey, InterContinental Athénée Palace invites you to become a part of its enduring legacy, creating new memories and preserving the history that lies within its storied walls.
TIMELINE
1914
WHERE THE STORY BEGINS
On the site once occupied by the Gherasi Inn in the 19th century, construction began in 1912 on a new hotel designed by the French architect Théophile Bradeau. This was the first major building in the capital to feature a reinforced concrete skeleton. The grand opening took place in 1914, marking the beginning of the extraordinary journey of the Athénée Palace.
A new InterContinental chapter begins here.
Thank you for your understanding as we refine our restaurant, bar, and SPA areas to bring you an even more enriching and memorable experience.