Work begins on Marousi casino complex near Athens Olympic Center after years of delays

Construction has officially commenced for the long-delayed casino and entertainment complex in the northern Athens suburb of Marousi. Cranes are already operating on site, which lies adjacent to the Athens Olympic complex (OAKA), and material deliveries are continuing at an intensive pace, according to local media reports.

The development involves the transfer of the only operating casino serving the greater Athens-Piraeus area from Mount Parnitha to Marousi. The relocation proposal remained under political, legal, and urban planning debate for years before construction entered the implementation stage.

The project has been one of the most discussed property developments in the Greek capital due to its location near OAKA and two established shopping malls in the area.

Supporters of the project have argued that the development will create jobs and bring investment to the surrounding district.

Opposition groups, including some residents and neighboring municipal authorities, have cited concerns related to traffic congestion, environmental effects, and changes to the character of Marousi.

In 2025, Greece’s Council of State upheld Presidential Decree 36/2023, clearing the way for the €300 million ($332 million) VORIA development by North Star Entertainment in Marousi. The mixed-use complex includes plans for a five-star hotel, conference center, casino, entertainment and dining venues, along with the relocation of the Mont Parnes casino to an 8,500-square-meter facility within the site.

The same year, the Greek government granted a three-year extension for the relocation of the Mont Parnes casino from Parnitha National Park to Marousi, moving the completion deadline to May 1, 2028, following delays linked to regulatory and administrative procedures. The decision applies to the casino operated by Hellenic Casino of Parnitha S.A., also known as EKPA S.A., under relocation provisions introduced in 2018.