The Culture Ministry will take over the historic Diethnes hotel in Florina, northern Greece, aiming to restore the 1924-1927 landmark, which still operates as a cafe.

The site appeared in films by director Theo Angelopoulos, including “The Suspended Step of the Stork,” and once sparked local backlash from Metropolitan Augustinos Kantiotis.

Culture Minister Lina Mendoni approved expropriation or purchase of the property, part of a broader heritage initiative exceeding €15 million.