Chrysanthos Panas

BIOGRAPHY

Chrysanthos Panas, a native of Athens and raised in the coastal haven of Vouliagmeni along the Athens Revierα, belongs to the esteemed Panas family of Cephalonia, tracing its lineage back to the 16th century. Graduating from Deree, the American College of Greece, with a Bachelor’s Degree, he embarked on a dynamic journey blending business acumen, artistic passion, and philanthropic endeavors.

Together with his brother Spyros, Chrysanthos ventured into the realm of hospitality, founding Panas Sophisticated Hospitality in 1992. This marked the genesis of their foray into the industry, establishing a legacy renowned for high-end restaurants and clubs nestled both in the heart of Athens and along the gorgeous Athens Riviera. Notable among their ventures is the iconic Island Club Restaurant, a jewel adorning the Athens Riviera; the exquisite Island Art and Taste, boasting six meticulously and aesthetically curated spaces and luxurious accommodations; the historic Athénée on Voukourestiou Street—an iconic centrally located restaurant in the pretty downtown area of Athens; and the elegant Foyer of the Pallas Theater.

Parallel to his entrepreneurial pursuits, Chrysanthos nurtured a profound affinity for the arts, assembling a remarkable collection encompassing over 300 works spanning diverse genres and mediums. His collection showcases esteemed artists such as Marina Abramović, Stephen Antonakos, Chryssa, Stanley Whitney, Louise Bonnet, and Thomas Helbig, reflecting his discerning eye and unwavering commitment to contemporary artistic expression. Beyond collecting, Panas actively champions cultural heritage and artistic endeavors, serving as a member of the Intangible Cultural Heritage committee of the Greek National Committee of UNESCO and the Advisory Committee concerning Artistic Issues of the Michael Cacoyannis Foundation.

In addition to his professional and cultural engagements, Chrysanthos is esteemed for his philanthropic contributions, channeling resources and expertise towards various charitable causes. Furthermore, he is a distinguished author, with his best-selling book, Greek Islands, published by the renowned international publishing house Assouline. Recognized as an authority in destination management, he was invited by Columbia University in New York to deliver a lecture on the innovative concept of the “Athens Riviera,” a testament to his pioneering role in shaping its landscape and in establishing it as a named destination.