Berengaria: Eternal Glory
Berengaria, one of the most historical hotels in Cyprus, is reborn, recovering its glorious past.
Text: Romina Xyda
On June 10, 1931, in the picturesque village of Prodromos atop the Troodos Mountains, at an elevation of 1400 metres amidst breathtaking landscapes, Berengaria officially opened its doors. Taking its name from the esteemed wife of Richard the Lionheart, King of England, and exuding an aura reminiscent of a majestic castle, this hotel was straight out of a fairy tale. Its visionary creator, Ioannis Kokkalos, a native of Prodromos, had long harboured a dream of creating a resort unparalleled in its magnificence and allure.
In the ensuing years, Berengaria experienced an unprecedented surge in visitors, surpassing all initial expectations. The publicity was aided by extensive advertisements in newspapers and travel guides. Ahead of its time, the hotel boasted a generator, a telegraph, and later a telephone. Moreover, every detail, from the letterheads and cards to the linen tablecloths and exquisite silverware, proudly bore the hotel’s esteemed emblem. The amenities offered were nothing short of lavish, encompassing meals drawing inspiration from Cypriot culinary traditions, grand dances accompanied by live orchestras, performances by renowned singers, captivating beauty contests, stirring concerts, and compelling theatrical productions. Moreover, the hotel boasted sporting facilities, including a heated swimming pool and tennis court, a casino, and horseback riding. Services such as a tailor and barber were also available. All of the above was more than enough to attract not only members of the aristocracy from far and wide but also influential figures of the era, including King Farouk of Egypt, Archbishop Makarios of Cyprus, and President Ezer Weizman of Israel.
By the 1980s, financial woes cast a shadow over the once glamorous Berengaria, marking the onset of its gradual decline. With each passing year, signs of neglect became increasingly evident, casting the hotel into disrepair until it was a mere shadow of its former splendour. Surrounding its crumbling façade, a tapestry of mystery began to unfold, with countless tales recounting passionate crimes, tragic drownings, and even instances of suicide. Gradually, the hotel earned a reputation in popular lore as a haunted establishment, deterring all but the bravest souls from venturing near its ruins. As myths and legends flourished, prospects for revival faded into obscurity.
Today marks a turning point for Berengaria as it emerges from the shadows of its past. Shedding years of neglect and superstition, the legendary hotel is poised to reclaim its former glory. This transformative journey is made possible by the substantial investment of the bbf Group, dedicated to restoring the historic edifice to its original grandeur while simultaneously crafting a modern hotel of unparalleled excellence. Set to be completed by the end of 2026, this ambitious project carries a price tag of 20 million euros for the new hotel and an additional 15 million euros for surrounding apartments and villas. Committed to delivering a truly exceptional experience, the management team endeavours to breathe new life into Berengaria – the rebirth it so rightfully deserves.
