According to legend, after Amimone was rescued by Poseidon, they had a son together, who had to be called Nauplius, the name from which it derives, Nauplia , a city whose attractions we will analyze in depth today, along with some plans that you cannot miss.
The city is located southwest of Argos, on the eastern coast of the Peloponnese, and its port is considered the most important in the Argolic Gulf .
In the past, Nafplio was conquered by the aforementioned city of Argos, specifically during the Messinian war. Later, it was part of the Roman Empire and, also, of the Byzantine Empire, until in the 12th century Acronauplia was born, the defensive prelude to this historic center of commerce.
Later, it became the heritage of the Franks, who sold it to Venice in 1389. In 1539 it was occupied by the Ottoman Empire, although the Venetians recovered it again a little later. The latter left their neoclassical architectural mark everywhere throughout this last term of office.
Already, in its most recent history, it was the capital of Greece from 1829 to 1934, and today, despite having lost this honor, it is still one of the most important population centers in the country.
In summer it is full of tourists, but in winter it maintains a calm rhythm that will allow you to enjoy its charms at your leisure . Its proximity to Athens (a distance of only 135 kilometers separates them), makes it the ideal getaway for locals, and a second golden stop for travelers interested in discovering the Peloponnese peninsula.
Nafplion basics
The points of interest of the city reflect its eventful history, rich in vicissitudes and great offensive skirmishes. Still, there is also time for peace in this Mediterranean gem.
The fortress of Bourtzi
The first mentioned image of Nauplia is the star of the islet that houses the old fortress. To enjoy this unique scene, it is best to access the port to have the best possible perspective .
The fortress of Bourtzi began to be built in 1471 in order to protect the port from pirates. Much later it became a hotel, a condition it maintained until 1971.
In our days, it is possible to visit the island. To get there you can take the boats that leave throughout the day. If you prefer to see it from afar, in the port there are numerous cafes and restaurants from which to enjoy the tremendous snapshot that makes up the fortress in the middle of the sea.
In summer the Nafplion International Festival is held, so it is not a bad idea to coincide the dates to enjoy, at the same time, the best samples of local culture.
Old town
Like all ancient cities, Nafplio also has a noteworthy old town. You could say that the historic city center exudes the charm of a Greek villa. On the other hand, the Venetian footprint crystallizes in streets paved with marble , narrow alleys and orange trees in the most idyllic places.
Although, without a doubt, the best are the facades of the different buildings, a waste of creative diversity .
The Archaeological Museum and Syntagma Square
Worthy of mention is the Archaeological Museum, another unparalleled sample of the “know-how” of the Venetians, who devised this building for other purposes that it now serves. Inside, numerous exhibits review the history of the region from the Paleolithic era. The Bronze period samples are essential in the city . It is open from Tuesday to Saturday.
It is located in Syntagma Square, in the center of the city. Being Nauplia the first Modern Greek capital, this area gathers its emblematic beginnings, represented by other notable buildings, such as the Vouleftiko, which served as the seat of the first parliament of Greece, and the Trianon , built in the times of the Turkish occupation.
If you like, there are great places to enjoy local cuisine in this area of the city, and the best nightlife swirls near the mythical Plaza.
Palamidi Fortress and Medieval Nauplia
If you want to know the Palamidi Venetian Fortress, which was built between 1711 and 1714, you must assume that at least 1,000 steps separate you from your destination. Of course, it is worth it.
Then the Medieval city is another award that encourages during the visit. Although, today, only a few ruins remain and one of its Gates standing, the rubble will transport you to another time of greater splendor.
In addition, the statue of Staikos Staikopoulos, located in the park of the same name, is another point of interest that you cannot miss. The figure honors this hero of the Greek War of Independence, a character who saw his death arrive in 1835 in this city.
Church of St. Nicholas of Nauplia
The Church of San Nicolás, patron saint of sailors, is one of the most representative temples in the city. As its commemorative inscription indicates, the parish was transferred from the walled enclosure to the beach by order of Agostino Sagredo, Admiral General of the Venetian Navy.
The initiative took place in 1713, and obeyed the desire to honor the sailors themselves, bringing faith as close as possible to its usual place of battle.
It is worth mentioning that the current one is not that church in which the souls of those who risked their lives at sea prayed, but another version that was inaugurated in 1836 , whose architecture follows the Italian path. The altarpiece and the pulpit are especially beautiful.
And there are still more things to do in Nafplio
While it is true that the previous landmarks accounted for a large part of the essential historical visits, there are still more interesting plans.
Bathe in the pools in the Nafplion Sea
Take advantage of your walk through the port to get closer to this area of pools equipped on the same shore. It is like bathing in the sea, but with all the comforts of a pool, shower and stairs included. So if you don’t like sand, this is the perfect place to enjoy a swim on the beach without a mandatory coating.
Or swim on a real beach and enjoy snorkeling
You can also go down to the sandy beaches at the foot of the city. We recommend the one near Palamidi. The color of its waters invites you to take your snorkel goggles and enjoy this underwater alternative. Also, Karathona and Kantia are not far from the city and guarantee crystal clear waters and all the relaxation you can get.
Visit to Vivari
If you are going to be in Nafplio for several days, surely you can take time to visit the beautiful town of Vivari. It doesn’t have too many tourist spots, but it makes up a beautiful ensemble . Its beach is, perhaps, the main attraction. There are some great restaurants to eat after your visit.
Nafplio is well stocked with interesting options and mythical places to enjoy. If you are thinking of visiting Greece, do not hesitate to include this city of the Peloponnese in your route, you will surely not regret it. In addition, if you are interested, here you can discover other basic attractions of the Hellenic country .
