Nafplion

A charming towns in Greece

Nafplion, located in the Argolis region of eastern Peloponnese, is known for its beauty and romantic charm. It served as the inaugural capital of Greece from 1823 to 1834, making it one of the most picturesque towns in the country. It boasts a rich Medieval style and is a mere 2-hour drive from Athens, making it a sought-after weekend getaway. The Old Town is a delightful place to wander, featuring elegant mansions and spacious squares. Perched on a hill overlooking the Old Town is a formidable fortress dating back to the Venetian era. Nafplion also offers an array of beautiful beaches, perfect for a summer holiday. A nearby tourist hotspot is the picturesque town of Tolo.

The legend

Legend has it that the town of Nafplion was established by Nafplios, the son of the Greek god Poseidon and the daughter of Danaus (also known as Danaida) Anymone. The history of the town dates back to ancient times when its soldiers took part in both the Argonautic expedition and the Trojan War. Nafplion saw a decline during the Roman era but experienced a resurgence during the Byzantine period. Throughout the centuries, the town was influenced by Frankish, Venetian, and Turkish conquerors, who left their mark on its culture, architecture, and traditions. Visitors to Nafplion can admire its ancient walls, medieval castles, monuments, statues, Ottoman fountains, and Venetian or neoclassical buildings, all of which showcase the unique beauty and architecture of the town.

Discover the city of Nafplion

Embark on a journey to uncover Nafplion hidden treasures, beginning in the ancient Old Town with its charming cobblestone streets, beautiful neoclassical mansions surrounded by Bougainvillea trees, and ornate Turkish fountains. In the heart of the city lies Syntagma Square, designed in the Italianate style, showcasing a variety of historic buildings and monuments. The square features two Turkish mosques, one which once housed the first “Mutual Learning” School and now serves as a cinema/theatre, and another that was the original location of the first Greek Parliament.

Additionally, visitors can explore the Archaeological Museum displaying significant artifacts from the Prehistoric and Mycenaean Era, as well as the Municipal Gallery. Nearby, you can find the church of Agios Spyridonas, where Governor Ioannis Kapodistrias was tragically assassinated, and the church of Agios Georgios, known for its important murals including a reproduction of Leonardo Da Vinci’s famous work “The Secret Dinner”.