Exploring Elefsina Pilot Sites Series 3: Discover Cine Eleusis, A Cultural Hub Reborn

© John Stathis/ MoE

Cine Eleusis, once one of the 13 movie theaters that operated in Elefsina, has been beautifully renovated and revitalized as both a cinema and a space for community activities and events. Originally opened in 1963, during the "golden age" of Greek cinema, it quickly became a beloved venue for locals, screening countless films and drawing thousands of moviegoers. For 25 years, it was a key cultural landmark and meeting place, transforming workers into lifelong cinema fans. In 1988, the cinema closed its doors with a screening of Louis Valdez's iconic period film La Bamba.

Cine Eleusis hosted the local Film Club, theater performances by various groups, and numerous events by cultural associations. It became a multi-purpose venue for both indoor and outdoor activities, marking unforgettable memories for the community.

"I saw my first movie there".
"It brings back only good memories".
"The cinema of our adolescence".
"Summer cinemas always have that nostalgic charm. Cine Eleusis is connected to our summer nights!"

Despite its symbolic and architectural significance, the cinema had been neglected for decades, hidden in the heart of the city's commercial center. Its iconic design, capable of being transformed into a semi-open-air space, lay dormant until 2022, when the Municipality of Elefsina took charge of its restoration in honor of the 2023 Eleusis European Capital of Culture initiative. The goal was not just to preserve the cinema's year-round character but to breathe new life into it as a multi-purpose venue – sparking a conversation among locals about its future.

"I think it should stop being a multiplex and become a municipal cinema".
"It’s beautiful now, but something still feels missing".
"Returning there was such an emotional moment".
"I’m not sure how to feel. It seems more like a multiplex than a traditional cinema".
"In addition to screenings, Cine Eleusis now hosts festivals, tributes, talks with filmmakers, and special events that enrich my cultural life and provide new experiences and knowledge".
"Shared experiences and discussions after the screenings really strengthen our social bonds and create a true sense of community".
"It’s a huge change for the neighborhood. Personally, I’d prefer if the arcade area were used more commercially or for services that bring the place to life throughout the day".

Cine Eleusis stands as a vital part of the city’s cultural heritage. Its ongoing operation is key to preserving the historical and cultural identity of Elefsina, ensuring that it continues to be a living, breathing piece of the city's legacy.

© Penelopi Gerasimou //2023 Eleusis ECoC