Hellinikon Complex

The Hellinikon Complex is situated in the south-west of Athens, on the site of the former Hellinikon International Airport, which closed in 2001. It consists of six separate venues, initially planned as temporary structures: the two Olympic Indoor Halls hosting the basketball, fencing and handball matches; the Hellinikon Hockey Centre; the Hellinikon Canoe/Kayak/Slalom Centre; the Olympic Baseball Centre; and the Olympic Softball Stadium.

Hellinikon Complex
© 2019 / Milos Bicanski / IOC | A view of the Olympic Fencing Hall and the Olympic Indoor Hall at the Hellenikon Complex.

Post-Games plans included the creation of one of the largest European metropolitan parks. However, a variety of economic and political factors have hindered efforts to formulate a comprehensive development plan.In 2014, a consortium led by Lamda Development from Greece, in partnership with Fosun from China and Al Maabar from Abu Dhabi, was selected as the preferred investor for the acquisition of the shares of Hellinikon SA, on a 99-year lease. The development of the area is one of the biggest urban renewal projects in Europe. Its aim is to redevelop the site into a mixed-use location of national and international importance, enhancing the attractiveness of the Athens greater area both as a global tourist destination and as a business, leisure, health and R&D hub in the Eastern Mediterranean. The Hellenic Republic Asset Development Fund is charged with drafting and carrying out the site development process. The project has yet to break ground.

Athens 2004