Step into a world where elegance meets greatness, where history whispers its tales through magnificent and contemporary rooms and authentic 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, 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. Over the years, it has played host to illustrious guests, dignitaries, and celebrities, etching its name into the chronicles of history.
The hotel has gracefully withstood the test of time, surviving both world wars and political upheavals, remaining a steadfast emblem of Bucharest's rich cultural heritage.
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 Collonades uncovers the entrance to the national heritage 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. During World War II, it served as a diplomatic hub and a safe haven that contributed to all the spies stories around the English Bar. The hotel's corridors whispered secrets and hosted clandestine meetings during periods of political turmoil. Its walls hold the echoes of countless legends, blending history with the allure of a luxury establishment.
Unforgettable Moments
InterContinental Athénée Palace has been a stage for countless unforgettable moments. From glamorous social events to high-profile conferences and royal receptions, the hotel has set the backdrop for cherished memories that will last a lifetime.
Its exceptional service, attention to detail, and commitment to exceeding guests' expectations have made it a preferred destination for discerning travelers seeking unparalleled experiences.
Preserving Heritage, Embracing the Future
As we celebrate the hotel's rich heritage, InterContinental Athénée Palace continues to evolve, seamlessly blending tradition with modernity. The guest rooms and suites offer luxurious comfort and contemporary amenities, while the dining establishments combine culinary excellence with a nod to traditional Romanian flavors. The hotel's commitment to sustainability and community engagement further reinforces its role as a responsible steward of the environment and a pillar of the local community.
Conclusion
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 land that in the 19th century belonged to the Gherasi Inn, 1912 sees the construction start of a hotel inspired by French architect Téophile Bradeau. 1914 marks the hotel's inauguration, a year that changed everything that was to come for Athénée Palace
1989
THE REVOLUTION’S DAMAGES
The national revolution in ’89 was another event with great significance for Romania. Athénée Palace was caught in the midst of the events taking considerable damage. The building showed visible destruction from the shootings, undergoing a new renovation in ’93.
1916
ROMANIA JOINS WORLD WAR ONE
World War One erupts. The war had a devastating impact upon most of the European countries. Romania was part to the events, which was felt extensively by the people of Bucharest, as well as the tourists visiting Athénée Palace at the time.
1996
THE EXTERNAL PARTNESHIP START
A fresh start of outstanding hospitality achievements. Athénée Palace partners up with one of the world's leading hotel brands, aiming to build the ideal place for tourists around the world, business developers, new partners, team members and of course for locals.
1937
THE ARCHITECTURAL CHANGE
The hotel undergoes a major yet necessary change, as its style at the time was considered unfitting with the general architectural trend. The architect Duiliu Marcu opted for a simplified art deco style, without overlooking the striking charm of the establishment.
2005
ANA HOTELS ACQUISITION OF ATHÉNÉE PALACE
2005 is the year when Ana Hotels buys Athénée Palace, a building that has been at the heart of the city for 91 years, offering guests plenty of joyful memories. A new stage begins marked by hospitality excellence in a trademark ambiance packed with history and tradition.
1944
ATHÉNÉE PALACE – WWII BOMBINGS
In April ‘44, Bucharest was bombed by the US troops. The main target: Bucharest North Railway Station. Part of building caught fire, while all windows were shattered in the explosion. Despite this, the building underwent considerable refurbishment, regaining its pre-war glory.
2014
CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION OF EXCELLENCE
Athénée Palace reaches 100 years of activity and marks the beginning of another century of outstanding service quality. 100 years of happy memories. This being the perfect opportunity to show the utmost passion for excellence alongside those who made it all possible.
1965
NEW WING BREAKS GROUND
Throughout the years, Athénée Palace has become Bucharest's prime location for a great number of guests. That is why the new wing of the hotel was erected in 1965. The new annex could now cater for the rapidly increasing footfall.
2021
NEW COMPLETE HOTEL RENOVATION
The new look of the rooms is based on a modern design concept, elegant, but complementary to the hotel’s over 107-year-old history. The facilities are updated with the latest technology and innovations, so that guests can enjoy a unique stay in a prestigious location.
1977
THE STRONG EARTHQUAKE WITHSTAND
4th March ‘77 sees the strongest earthquake, 7.2 Richter scale. 1,391 of the victims were reported only in Bucharest. Athénée Palace withstands, despite the fact that many of the nearby buildings were severely damaged. Years later, in '83, the hotel’s interior receives another restyling.
2023
BEGINNING OF A NEW ERA
World’s first luxury hotel brand, InterContinental Hotels & Resorts brings the grandeur to the heart of Bucharest in 2023 signing of Athénée Palace Bucharest. This marks the return of the IHG brand to Romania in a brand new fully renovated hotel.
100 YEARS OF EXCELLENCE
One hundred years of tradition and excellence
Each year of the past century bears the memory of countless unique and impactful events that have left their mark on the hotel, brought to life by its very guests.
1912 sees the constructions start of a hotel inspired by French architect Téophile Bradeau. This was the first major landmark in Bucharest made with armored concrete.
1914 marks the hotel's inauguration, a year that changed everything that was to come. The hotel’s main jewel, now known as the historic Le Diplomate is a large ballroom featuring gold leaf wall details, a stained-glass ceiling, crystal mirrors, and beautiful chandeliers. It is one of the most prestigious venues in Bucharest for its architecture and detailed design, and the best-preserved rooms in Romania, listed as a National Heritage Historic Monument.
The outside foyer, Les Colonnades, has been restored and with its marble columns dating 110 years provides the perfect setting for a timeless welcome reception.
Looking out onto the bustling Revolution Square, the hotel’s Café Athénée, blends traditional culture with contemporary design and offers classic European dishes with a modern twist. For a slice of Bucharest’s history try the famous English Bar, the hotel’s landmark where the footsteps of famous spies and writers can be retraced. This is an old-fashioned bar with an atmospheric feel, chandeliers, beamed ceilings and patterned carpets.
In order to embark on a culinary journey with courses from all around Italy, Roberto’s Restaurant offers its clientele Italian cuisine at its best, thanks to our use of the freshest seasonal ingredients, cooked to perfection by our chefs. The menu will take you to numerous places, with dishes prepared to highlight the quality of the ingredients and to complement the magnificent wine selection. The contemporary décor and the elegant atmosphere will introduce you to a Roberto’s authentic version of la dolce vita.
The rooms new look, after the full renovation process, is based on a modern design concept, elegant, but complementary to the hotel’s over 110-year-old history. The facilities are updated with the latest technologies and innovations, so that guests can enjoy a unique stay in a prestigious location.
The interior design is laid out using a neutral colour palette, with green accents using natural materials, while for the artwork on display we collaborated with a local artist. The flooring is made of brushed and bevelled oak, the walls are decorated with three types of ornamental profiles made of beech wood, and the bathrooms are completely covered with natural marble by Botticino and Grigio Imperiale in warm colours, beige tones, and greys contrasting for the accent wall. In order to highlight the design of the room, special attention was also paid to the lighting fixtures, specially designed and made in Austria for the Intercontinental Athénée Palace.
The rooms benefit from intelligent access and control systems, and their microclimate is achieved through an integrated BMS system.
InterContinental Athénée Palace location is set in the cultural heart of Bucharest, at the crossing between Episcopiei Street and Victory Avenue, halfway of each Victory Avenue end, one of the oldest and most important streets in the city, making this location close to a vast majority of significant historical buildings.
Nearby you will find one of the most beautiful buildings in Bucharest, the Romanian Athenaeum, with an impressive architectural combination of both neo-classical and eclectic styles.
Biennial during the month of September, George Enescu Square becomes The Festival Square, being associated with the George Enescu International Festival, where the public can enjoy live, open-air classical music concerts with free access. You will discover around many museums, monuments, theatres, small parks, high end fashion stores, chic cafes and many restaurants.