Peel back the historical layers of Aisha Hotel
A 16th century mansion merging the past with the present.
The process of restoration is an ongoing one, an acknowledgement of the building’s past and a celebration of its current belonging.
A design hotel with undeniable heritage
Dating back to the late 16th – early 17th century, Aisha Hotel has been meticulously restored to preserve and highlight the historic features of the original mansion. Each of the seven suites are unique in their design, structure and features, and have been named after special characteristics of the old building, such as Cion, which houses the historic columns found in the front guestroom. Retaining as many of the original features as possible, Aisha offers a distinct charm, characterised by its medley of architectural influences and reflective of its surroundings.
Preserving the past, celebrating the present
Today Aisha Hotel sits on the UNESCO world heritage site of Kastelli Hill, nestled between the historical street of Lithinon and the front of the Old Port of Chania. Such a prominent location offers stunning views of the scenic harbour and tranquil sea. A Venetian mansion that survived the WW2 bombings in 1941, on the road leading to the palazzo, it has become one of the most significant structures of the Venetian and Turkish periods.
Preserving the past, celebrating the present
Signs of its history are visible throughout the building’s architecture. Venetian windows, corners, stone arches and stone walls are married with Turkish accents of low arches, wooden beams and tsatmas. An Egyptian architectural influence on the building’s three emblematic pillars is both evident and enigmatic. They have strong classical elements yet showcase the Egyptian admixture, which has divided architectural opinion as to the origin. We invite guests to concoct their own stories of the former inhabitants of this truly remarkable space.