First look: inside the restoration of historic Berengaria Hotel
Renovation work is currently in full swing at the historic Berengaria Hotel in Prodromos, one of Cyprus’ most historic mountain resorts. The well-known residential and commercial developer BBF is spearheading the ambitious project, aiming to r
Renovation work is currently in full swing at the historic Berengaria Hotel in Prodromos, one of Cyprus’ most historic mountain resorts.
The well-known residential and commercial developer BBF is spearheading the ambitious project, aiming to restore what was once called the “Jewel of Prodromos” to its former glory by the end of 2027.
In a recent statement, Andronikos Spyrou, Project Manager at BBF, provided a timeline of the ongoing restoration efforts.
“The renovation of the Berengaria Hotel began with the first phase of emergency repair and maintenance works, which commenced in October 2021 and was completed in June 2022,” Spyrou said.
“The second phase of emergency repair and maintenance started in April 2023 and was completed in December 2023,” he added.
Currently, the project is in its third phase, which began in June 2024 and is expected to conclude by May 2025.
According to Spyrou, the overall project is slated for completion at the end of its fourth and final phase, with an estimated timeline running from June 2025 to the close of 2027.
He added that “all relevant procedures and works for the full renovation that preserves the listed status of the Berengaria Hotel are progressing according to this schedule”.
To date, significant progress has been made, with completed works including the meticulous cleaning and maintenance of the hotel’s entire stone facade.
These tasks were carried out during the first and second phases of emergency repairs.
Furthermore, essential repairs have been completed on the stone joints of the existing concrete structures, both inside and outside the building.
Concrete reinforcements, where necessary, have also been made to ensure the structural strengthening of the listed building.
Spyrou highlighted that the period from early 2024 to May was dedicated to finalising all architectural and structural studies.
The works currently underway in the third phase include the removal of the existing sloping roof, which covers around 1,500 square metres, and its replacement with a new roof modelled on the original, using French-style tiles, as specified by the Town Planning and Housing Department.
Additionally, this phase will see the completion of all concrete works inside the listed building.
Once completed, the highly anticipated project, undertaken by BBF, not only aims to restore the hotel to its former glory, but also to equip it with modern, high-standard amenities.
It is expected to become a landmark site and, in addition, an attractive mountain destination, thereby enhancing the quality of Cyprus’ tourist product.
Carefully integrated into a uniquely lush and idyllic mountain landscape; while also operating with respect and in harmony with its surrounding environment, the hotel will offer unique experiences of relaxation and enjoyment to its visitors throughout every season of the year.
Commenting on the progress, the head of the Prodromos Community Council, Neophytos Neophytou, emphasised the cultural importance of the hotel.
“The listed Berengaria Hotel is a testament to our island’s cultural heritage,” he said.
Neophytou explained that “here at the Prodromos Community, we are proud to see this ambitious project move forward and come to fruition”.
Furthermore, he highlighted that “as a result of the positive cooperation with the relevant official authorities, the building’s listed status is preserved with the renovation progressing in line with the conservation sector guidelines”.
The reopening of the Berengaria Hotel is eagerly anticipated, with hopes that it will mark a pivotal moment in the broader revitalisation of Cyprus’s mountain villages.
“We look forward to it with optimism,” Neophytou concluded.