The Melenos-Lindos occupies a prominent position set on terraces cut into the flanks of the Lindos Acropolis. The ancient temple to Athena above, enclosed in its Byzantine and Medieval fortress and a sweeping view of the sea and the distant coastline below, create a spectacular setting for this distinctive accommodation.Architect Anastasia Papaioanou laid out the site and basic structure so that the compact group of layered buildings containing the twelve rooms and public areas branch from a central stairway. The hotel has the appearance of a village within a village. For both aesthetic and archaeological reasons, it was imperative for the final design of the hotel to blend seamlessly with the historic village. Lindos has early 17th C Mansions with unique architecture, an eclectic mix of Byzantine, Medieval, Arabic and Ottoman influences.
Using this rich heritage as a basis, artist-designer Donald Green adapted these elements to orchestrate the highly detailed layout of the interior and exterior spaces, to reflect this inheritance. He also designed a range of hand-made items exclusively for the fit-out of the hotel’s interior and terraces.
Massive retaining walls supporting terraces and the citrus garden adjoining the complex reinforce the ancient character of the village, and under huge medieval-style tents there is gourmet dining on the upper terrace. Colour from trailing bougainvilleas, and fragrance from frangipani, lavender and jasmine enhance this sensuous setting. It has taken over thirteen years for owner-operator, Michalis Melenos to achieve his vision to create this sophisticated environment which subtly integrates ancient history with 21st C expectations of comfort. The numerous accolades received for the success of this collaborative design achievement are well deserved.
