The inauguration of the impressive new façade of the Ministry of National Defence took place in the presence of the country’s entire political and military leadership, in the grounds of the “Papagos” Camp. The new architectural identity represents a deeply symbolic project, intrinsically linked to the “Ark of National Memory,” the monument honoring 121,692 fallen heroes who gave their lives for freedom, embodying a contemporary collective vision.
For ELVIAL, this participation is both a profound honour and a moment of historic responsibility.
By integrating its systems into the new façade of the Ministry of National Defence, ELVIAL becomes part of a landmark project, where Greek entrepreneurship and modern technology meet national memory, art and culture.
The project reflects the artistic concept and design of the internationally renowned sculptor and Professor of Architecture of the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Konstantinos Varotsos, and was funded and executed by METLEN.
ELVIAL met the project’s high demands by developing tailor-made solutions designed and produced exclusively to enhance the architectural concept. Through a holistic approach to study, design, and processing, the company ensured absolute precision, durability, and visual coherence of the elements, contributing decisively to the project’s success. It is worth noting that despite its scale and complexity, the project was delivered in an exceptionally short timeframe, reaffirming the company’s readiness and advanced technical expertise.
Evangelos Mytilineos, Chairman and CEO of METLEN, stated during the handover ceremony of this emblematic donation: “METLEN responded to an obvious patriotic duty and expresses its sincere gratitude for the honour bestowed upon it to support the Ministry of National Defence, the Hellenic National Defence General Staff, and the General Staffs of the Army, Navy, and Air Force. In a tangible, practical, yet deeply symbolic way. Through an intervention of high aesthetic value and significant functional upgrade to this historic and iconic building. By strengthening the Armed Forces, their infrastructure, weapons systems, and above all their human capital, we reinforce our national power and sovereignty, enhance deterrence, protect our national territory, and safeguard peace and stability in our region. This is the first prerequisite—together with the functioning of democracy, social cohesion, and inclusion—for the country’s progress and the prosperity of all Greeks, in a fluid, uncertain, and dangerous world that has lost many of the certainties we once took for granted.”
At the same time, Konstantinos Varotsos highlighted the following regarding his collaboration with ELVIAL: “It was a very positive surprise to work with ELVIAL. First, because I discovered a company in Greece that operates with European standards of the highest level, and second, because it was a great pleasure as the company is based in Thessaloniki—a city for which I have a deep affection, having taught there for 23 years. I would also like to underline the professionalism, readiness, and seriousness ELVIAL demonstrated throughout the Ministry of National Defence project. It is a great joy and an optimistic sign to collaborate with such Greek companies at this time. Let us not forget that the material was produced by Greek hands, processed by Greek hands, and installed by Greek hands. We were very fortunate in this project.”
Project Contributors:
· Konstantinos Varotsos, Professor of Architecture, AUTh
· Chrysanthi Aspropoulou, Architect
· Voutsadakis S.A, Structural Steel Constructions
