The Hellenic Public Properties Company S.A. (HPPC), a member company of Growthfund, announces that on Monday, April 14, 2025, a formal signing ceremony took place to finalize the concession of the tourism property “Rododafni Pentelis,” widely known as the “Duchess of Plaisance Mansion,” to the Municipality of Pentelι.
The ceremony was attended by the Vice President of the Government, Mr. Kostis Hatzidakis; the Chief Executive Officer of HPPC, Ms. Iro Chatzigeorgiou; and the Mayor of Penteli, Ms. Natassa Kosmopoulou.
The concession has been granted with the objective of enabling the Municipality of Penteli to initiate and implement all necessary studies, obtain required permits, and carry out the restoration and renovation of the property and its surrounding area. These actions will be financed through resources secured by the Municipality. The estate is intended to operate, for a period of twenty years, as a Center for Cultural and Intellectual Activities, serving the strategic vision of enhancing local cultural infrastructure.
The “Duchess of Plaisance Mansion,” also referred to as the “Rododafni Castle,” is a historical and architectural landmark of the Attica region. Officially designated as a modern monument, it is situated on Koufos Hill within the Municipality of Penteli, near the Penteli Observatory. Construction began in 1840, originally conceived as the summer residence of the Duchess of Plaisance. The distinguished Gothic-style structure comprises two floors, a basement, and auxiliary facilities surrounding the main building. It was designed by the eminent architect Stamatios Kleanthis—renowned for numerous projects commissioned by the Duchess—and was constructed primarily from the Pentelic marble.
Mr. Kostis Hatzidakis, Vice President of the Government, stated:
“A longstanding and legitimate request by the Municipality of Penteli has finally been fulfilled. With the concession of the Duchess of Plaisance Mansion, a significant outstanding matter is resolved—serving the interests of both the Municipality and HPPC. This historically significant estate will be revitalized, and following its restoration and renewal, it will be accessible to the community as a venue for cultural activities. I take great satisfaction in having contributed to the realization of this objective—both in my capacity as Minister of National Economy and Finance and as a Member of Parliament representing this constituency. Moreover, this initiative exemplifies the renewed momentum of HPPC, which is now effectively addressing previous challenges and proceeding with the strategic utilization of its assets through a modernized and forward-looking approach.”
Ms. Iro Chatzigeorgiou, CEO of HPPC added:
“We are pleased to announce the conclusion of a significant agreement with the Municipality of Penteli, which brings a definitive resolution to a long-standing and complex issue. This partnership demonstrates the tangible outcomes that can be achieved through aligned vision and shared commitment to public interest. A key pillar of HPPC’s strategic direction is the sustainable development of landmark properties, in ways that foster local growth, promote cultural heritage, and support tourism. This initiative stands as a clear example of our commitment to delivering long-term value to both residents and the local economy.”
Ms. Natassa Kosmopoulou, Mayor of Municipality of Penteli, emphasized:
“The concession of the Duchess of Plaisance Mansion to the Municipality of Penteli represents a historic milestone and a major achievement for our city. This iconic landmark of Attica, rich in cultural and historical significance, now returns to the stewardship of the local community. Our goal is to breathe new life into this emblematic site and transform it into a vibrant Center for Cultural and Intellectual Engagement. I extend my sincere gratitude to HPPC and the Government for their cooperation. We are fully committed to honoring this agreement through tangible actions that will elevate the Mansion into a beacon of culture, education, and community outreach for all of Penteli.”
