Prinkipo Greek Orthodox Orphanage to Reopen as Luxury Hotel

On May 23, 2026, the historic Prinkipo Greek Orthodox Orphanage on Turkey's Princes' Islands announced its transformation into a luxury hotel. A short ferry ride from Istanbul, the revamped landmark is poised to draw international guests.

The Prinkipo Greek Orthodox Orphanage, situated on Büyükada, stands as an architectural icon. Designed by Alexandre Vallaury in 1898, this five-story structure is Europe's largest wooden building, boasting 206 rooms. Initially conceived as a luxury palace, it served as an orphanage for decades.

According to Travel And Tour World, the restoration of the building, which has suffered from years of neglect, demands a significant investment of at least 40 million euros. The Ecumenical Patriarchate opted for a hotel conversion to fund necessary repairs and ensure the site's longevity.

This development is expected to reshape tourism on the car-free Princes' Islands, attracting history enthusiasts, architecture aficionados, and luxury travelers. Local businesses anticipate a boost from increased visitor traffic.

The restoration adheres to strict Turkish preservation guidelines, maintaining the original wooden design. The project aims to blend the island's rich past with a luxurious contemporary experience, making the hotel a destination in itself.

Our take: Adaptive reuse projects of this scale are notoriously complex. The 40 million euro estimate, if accurate, indicates a serious commitment to preserving the structural integrity and historical essence of the building rather than simply retrofitting it. This kind of heritage-focused development sets a high bar for luxury hospitality grounded in cultural stewardship. The appeal of a grand, historic wooden edifice, coupled with the tranquility of the Princes' Islands, could make this a truly unique offering in the region's burgeoning luxury market.