Български 
Hotel with a History
Start of construction
Designed by world-renowned Japanese architect Kisho Kurokawa, Vitosha New Otani stands as a masterpiece of contemporary architecture. A visionary figure of the late twentieth century, Kurokawa has made a lasting contribution to global architecture. Perched at the highest point in Sofia, Vitosha New Otani Hotel beautifully embodies the enduring cultural connection between Bulgaria and the Land of the Rising Sun, Japan.
Opening of "Vitosha New Otani" Hotel
The grand opening took place on May 24, 1979, in the presence of distinguished state representatives. The building seamlessly blends the modern architectural vision of the twentieth century with thoughtful spatial design that highlights key moments in the urban landscape. This unique landmark stands as a harmonious fusion of heritage and innovation.
"Vitosha-New Otani" becomes "Intercontinental"
The New Otani chain withdraws, and the hotel becomes part of the Intercontinental
"Intercontinental" becomes "Kempinski Hotel Zografski Sofia"
The hotel became part of the Kempinski chain and was renamed the Kempinski Hotel Zografski Sofia.
"Kempinski Hotel Zografski" becomes Hotel Marinela Sofia
"Kempinski Hotel Zografski" becomes "Hotel Marinela Sofia"
Renovation of the hotel
From 2014 to 2016, the hotel and hotel rooms were being renovated. The design is innovative and modern, in sync with Japanese minimalism and attention to detail.
Studio Kurokawa visit Hotel Marinela Sofia
The interior harmoniously blends warmth and tradition with innovative, contemporary design, carefully preserving the essence of Japanese architectural philosophy embedded in the hotel’s original concept. This vision was reaffirmed in 2016 during a visit by Akira Kumazawa, CEO of Kisho Kurokawa Architect & Associates, who described the hotel as a living symbol of the longstanding cultural ties between Bulgaria and the Land of the Rising Sun, Japan.
