AENAON Mediterranean Park: Greece’s Largest Urban Regeneration Project at Faliro Bay

An impression of the upcoming “AENAON, the Open Mediterranean Park” at Faliro Bay. Photo source: Attica Region

The plans for the metropolitan park at Faliro Bay in Athens, set to become the largest urban regeneration initiative ever undertaken in the Region of Attica, were officially presented on Thursday.

Named “AENAON, the Open Mediterranean Park”, the project spans 541 stremma (approximately 133.5 acres) and embodies the principles of the New European Bauhaus, an initiative that aims to blend sustainability, aesthetics, and inclusivity in urban design. It integrates cutting-edge practices in innovation, energy efficiency, and environmental protection, setting a new benchmark for sustainable urban development.

Expected to be completed by 2028, the park will feature a wide array of recreational and cultural amenities. These include swimming pools, sports courts, modern infrastructure for concerts and exhibitions, and spaces for cultural and sporting events, making it a vibrant destination for both leisure and entertainment.

PM: A transformative vision for Attica and the Med

Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis. Photo source: Attica Region

Speaking at the presentation, Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis described AENAON as a transformative project for the entire Mediterranean.

“The park will serve as a gateway for entertainment and sports for the people of Attica and the millions of visitors to the region,” he noted, emphasizing its accessibility for all, including individuals with mobility limitations.

The park, which will provide free access to all areas, is set to enhance the quality of life for residents of nearby municipalities such as Kallithea, Moschato, and Paleo Faliro. Together with the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center (SNFCC) and the soon-to-open seaside walkway, AENAON is expected to solidify Attica’s coastline — extending from Piraeus to Cape Sounion — as a unique, 24/7 destination.

Attica Governor: AENAON is a new landmark

Attica Governor Nikos Hardalias. Photo source: Attica Region

Attica Governor Nikos Hardalias described the park as “a new landmark” that exemplifies sustainable urban regeneration.

“This project will showcase how urban redevelopment can be executed sustainably and creatively while remaining accessible to all,” he said, highlighting its inclusive design.

Regarding the park’s name, Hardalias highlighted that “AENAON” reflects the philosophy of the regional authority, which is to make a “continuous effort to make a difference”, with the ultimate goal of improving citizens’ daily lives.

He also placed particular emphasis on the designation of the project as the “Open Mediterranean Park”, highlighting the sea’s significance for Attica as a “critical vital space” in every respect — economic, geopolitical, and cultural.

“This symbolically reflects the scale of the intervention, which extends beyond the boundaries of the region, and even the country,” he said.

Sustainability and Economic Impact

The total development budget of 370 million euros, already approved by the European Commission, includes extensive landscaping that will transform 75 percent of the park — 343 stremma (approximately 84.8 acres) — into green space with 4,000 trees and over 185,000 shrubs. The remaining 25 percent will host cultural, sports, social, educational, and thematic activities, as well as limited commercial uses designed to support the park’s operations.

The ambitious project aims to drive economic growth across Attica by attracting visitors, boosting local businesses, and promoting the region as a premier tourism destination.

European Commissioner for Cohesion and Reforms Elisa Ferreira praised AENAON as an “iconic project” during her address.

She highlighted its alignment with the European Bauhaus principles, describing it as “a fine example of public investment excellence for Greece and Europe, harmonizing people, nature, and the urban environment”.

Future developments

An impression of the upcoming “AENAON, the Open Mediterranean Park” at Faliro Bay. Photo source: Attica Region

According to the regional authority, the ongoing urban regeneration will be further extended. With the approval of the central government, the concession for the Olympic Tae Kwon Do Stadium and Nerou Square will be granted to the Region of Attica for the next 40 years, with completion expected in the coming months.

Additionally, a unified management body will be established by the Region of Attica, in collaboration with all local municipalities and entities, ensuring a cohesive approach to the redevelopment of Faliro Bay’s waterfront.

PM Mitsotakis also noted plans to repurpose sports facilities built for the 2004 Athens Olympics, giving them new roles to serve contemporary needs.

Beyond Faliro Bay, the Attica Region has announced an array of development projects across its 66 municipalities, supported by secured resources and clear timelines.