Deep in the Troodos Mountains, near the village of Prodromos, stands a majestic yet mysterious building—the Berengaria Hotel. Once a luxurious retreat for royalty, politicians, and aristocrats, today it remains in ruins, surrounded by legends and ghost stories. However, its days of abandonment are coming to an end: the well-known real estate developer bbf: has announced an ambitious project to restore the historic hotel. In the coming years, Berengaria will be transformed into a luxurious boutique hotel, preserving its historical charm while integrating modern amenities.
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A Royal Past: How Berengaria Was Born
The history of this unique hotel dates back to the 1930s, when Cypriot businessman Ioannis Kokkalos envisioned building a grand mountain resort. He named it Berengaria, after Berengaria of Navarre, the wife of King Richard the Lionheart. According to legend, their wedding took place on the island of Cyprus.
Construction of the hotel took several years, and in 1931, Berengaria officially opened its doors. At the time, it was considered a symbol of luxury. Guests enjoyed hot and cold running water, telephones in rooms, and even a nightclub, which was a rarity in European hotels at the time.
For several decades, Berengaria became the most prestigious resort in Cyprus. Among its high-profile guests were Winston Churchill, King Farouk I of Egypt, and countless aristocrats and diplomats. The hotel was known for its first-class service, exquisite cuisine, breathtaking mountain views, and glamorous social events.
Decline and Abandonment
After the death of its founder, Berengaria was passed down to Kokkalos’ sons. However, disputes over management and a lack of proper leadership led to a gradual decline. In 1984, more than 50 years after its opening, Berengaria shut its doors for good.
Since then, the hotel has stood empty, slowly deteriorating under the effects of time and weather. Despite its state of ruin, Berengaria became a cult destination for mystery seekers and paranormal enthusiasts. Some claim that ghostly whispers and shadows can be seen and heard within its walls, while others believe the spirits of the Kokkalos family still haunt the corridors.
These eerie stories have made the abandoned hotel a popular site for urban explorers, photographers, and thrill-seekers. However, the building itself remains in a dangerous and unstable condition, making any visits extremely risky.
A New Beginning: bbf: Acquires Berengaria
After decades of neglect, Berengaria has been given a second chance. In 2023, the well-known Cypriot real estate developer bbf: (Build Better Future) acquired the property and announced plans for its full-scale restoration.
What is bbf:?
bbf: is one of the leading real estate developers in Cyprus, specializing in high-end residential and commercial projects. The company has completed numerous successful developments in Limassol, Paphos, and Nicosia, focusing on luxury living, modern architecture, and premium hospitality.
The restoration of Berengaria is one of the company’s most ambitious projects. The goal is not just to renovate the building, but to transform it into a world-class boutique hotel while preserving its historic character.
What Will the New Berengaria Look Like?
The reconstruction of Berengaria will be carried out in multiple phases. The first step will focus on reinforcing the structure and restoring the historic facade. After that, the interiors will be redesigned to blend classic charm with modern luxury.
Key Features of the New Berengaria Hotel:
- Historic architecture with modern comforts. The building’s original stone fireplaces, grand staircases, and arched windows will be preserved.
- Spacious luxury rooms and suites. The hotel will feature high-end accommodations with panoramic views of the Troodos Mountains.
- Gastronomic experiences. Guests will enjoy fine-dining restaurants, cafés, and bars, offering gourmet Mediterranean cuisine.
- Wellness and relaxation facilities. A state-of-the-art spa, wellness center, and fitness area will be added.
- Outdoor terraces and pools. Beautifully landscaped gardens and outdoor lounge areas will enhance the experience.
- Luxury villas and mountain chalets. In addition to hotel suites, exclusive villas and cottages will be available for purchase.
The total investment for the Berengaria restoration project is estimated to be tens of millions of euros. The hotel will be renamed the Berengaria Luxury Boutique Hotel, aiming to become one of the most prestigious destinations in Cyprus.
Why This Project Matters for Cyprus
The revival of Berengaria is a major milestone for the Troodos region. It is expected to boost tourism, create new jobs, and attract international visitors.
Locals are optimistic that this project will breathe new life into the village of Prodromos, transforming it into one of Cyprus’ key cultural and hospitality landmarks.
The story of Berengaria is a fascinating blend of history, mystery, and modern development. Once a decaying relic, the hotel is now on its way to becoming a symbol of elegance and sophistication once again.
With bbf: leading the restoration, Berengaria is set to reclaim its legendary status and redefine luxury hospitality in Cyprus. The next chapter in its history is about to be written, ensuring that the legacy of this grand hotel lives on for generations to come.
