The Story
For Antonis Sgardelis, hospitality is more than luxury—it’s about reviving history. A civil engineer and passionate preservationist, Antonis has spent his career restoring Greece’s architectural gems. His most ambitious project: transforming a centuries-old Byzantine mansion into Kinsterna Hotel, where heritage and modern comfort beautifully merge.
His journey began in the early 2000s, when he returned to Monemvasia in the Peloponnese. There, he discovered a crumbling estate with a central cistern, olive groves, and the remains of a grand manor. Instead of ruins, Antonis saw a future. With a team of architects, engineers, and local craftsmen, he restored the estate over three years using traditional methods. The revived cistern became a symbol of self-sufficiency, inspiring the estate’s gardens and farm-to-table cuisine.
Today, Kinsterna Hotel offers a timeless escape, with views of Monemvasia Castle and the Aegean. From restored frescoes to fragrant orchards, every detail reflects Antonis’ dedication to authenticity.
Beyond Kinsterna, as co-founder of AVAX, Antonis has led major restoration projects across Greece, including the Bodossakis Mansion and the Theatre of the Society for Macedonian Studies. His work shows how honoring the past can shape a richer, more meaningful future.
To Antonis Sgardelis, Kinsterna is more than a hotel—it’s a tribute to Greek heritage and a lasting legacy of restoration with soul.
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