by croatiaweek
April 22, 2026
in
News
Štafileo Castle in Kaštel Štafilić (Photo: Mario Alajbeg)
Kaštela, 22 April 2026 – The Czech-based investment firm Odien Grupa has confirmed the acquisition of Štafileo Castle, a 16th-century coastal fortress located in Kaštel Štafilić.
Also known as Rotondo, the castle was originally built in 1508 and sits directly on the Adriatic shoreline, combining significant historical value with a rare seafront position.
Odien Grupa plans to restore the Renaissance fortress and reposition it as an intimate luxury heritage hotel. The project marks a further expansion of the company’s hospitality portfolio along the Dalmatian coast and reinforces its strategic focus on developing Kaštela as an increasingly attractive tourism destination.
Despite an existing permit allowing for separate residential and commercial units, the investor has committed to preserving the castle as a single, unified historical structure.
(Photo: Mario Alajbeg)
The redevelopment will ensure the site remains an integral cultural monument rather than being divided into private units.
The planned hotel will feature a limited number of suites, with a strong emphasis on maintaining authenticity and architectural integrity. All restoration works will be carried out in cooperation with heritage conservation authorities to ensure the highest standards of protection.
Michael Saran, owner of Odien Grupa, said the decision reflects a long-term vision.
“Štafileo Castle is an integral part of Kaštela’s identity. We have made a deliberate decision to preserve it as a single entity and transform it into an intimate heritage hotel by the sea, ensuring its long-term future for the local community, visitors and future generations,” he stated.
The Štafileo project represents Odien Grupa’s second major investment in Kaštela within the past three months. The company is also redeveloping a former resort complex in Kaštel Stari into a 150-room luxury resort, expected to operate year-round and be completed by the end of 2028.
(Photo: Mario Alajbeg)
Together, the developments reflect a dual strategy: expanding large-scale premium accommodation while also creating boutique, ultra-luxury heritage experiences. This approach is expected to further position Kaštela as an emerging high-end destination on the Croatian tourism market.
Mayor of Kaštela, Denis Ivanović, welcomed the investment, highlighting the importance of activating valuable local sites and recognising the destination’s tourism potential.
(Photo: Mario Alajbeg)
About the investor
Founded in 2004 and headquartered in Prague, Odien operates across real estate, hospitality, infrastructure and energy sectors. Its flagship project, Avia City in Prague, spans 66 hectares and is one of the largest urban regeneration developments in the Czech Republic.
In Croatia, the group owns and operates the Le Méridien Lav Split, alongside other hospitality and wellness assets. Through its Sport2Life foundation, the company also supports youth sport and education.
