The iconic Cine Eleusis, another major infrastructure-legacy of the Capital of Culture, is preparing to host a variety of cultural activities during the title year, 2023, after being purchased by the Municipality of Elefsina
2023 Eleusis European Capital of Culture will host a plethora of artistic activities at the historic Cine Eleusis during the title year, following the signing of a contract for the purchase of the emblematic building by the Municipality of Elefsina, which took place on Thursday, September 8.
Cine Eleusis will be a major infrastructure-legacy for the city and its inhabitants, and the first multi-purpose cultural venue in the area of Upper Elefsina that will host theatrical performances, film screenings and artistic activities. The purchase was made through the 20 million euros allocated by the Hellenic Ministry of Interior to the Municipality of Elefsina for the development, upgrading and acquisition of building infrastructure, in view of the 2023 Eleusis European Capital of Culture.
Cine Eleusis has been directly linked to the city’s cultural history. The plot has a total surface area of 1,015.16 sq.m. and, with the upcoming reconstruction of the building, it will be able to host shows and cultural events with a capacity of approximately 200 people. According to the book by Kostas Lykidis, entitled “Cinema Halls of Elefsina” (Greek title: “Κινηματογραφικές Αίθουσες της Ελευσίνας”), the cinema opened in 1963 on the initiative of Stavros Mamaloukos and his son Stamatis, who later became the owner. Originally it had 550 seats, and its sides also featured special shutters, which would open, converting it to an open cinema for the summer. Cine Eleusis hosted screenings by the Cinema Club, theatrical performances by various troupes, as well as many events by local cultural associations. The cinema was hugely successful, with large crowds of people flocking to the screenings every single time. It closed down in 1988, following Stamatis Mamaloukos’ serious health problems. Its last screening was that of the legendary period film “La Bamba,” by Luis Valdez.
