Georgios Oikonomou, founder of Galaxy Hotel, dies at 77

Georgios Ioannis Oikonomou, a prominent figure in Cretan tourism and the founder of the historic Galaxy Hotel in Heraklion, has passed away at the age of 77. He died on Saturday, November 7.

A mechanical and electrical engineer by training from the National Technical University of Athens, Oikonomou initially worked on technical projects, including telecommunications installations for the US base in Gournes. He transitioned into the tourism sector in 1979 with the establishment of the Galaxy Hotel. He later expanded his business footprint in 1987 with the creation of Galaxy Villas, now known as Galaxy Suites Boutique Resort.

The Heraklion Hotel Association held an emergency meeting to pass a unanimous resolution honoring his vision and contribution to quality tourism. The funeral service is scheduled for Monday, November 9, at the Cathedral of Saint Titus in Heraklion, followed by burial at the old cemetery of Agios Konstantinos.