Nafplio is a charismatic city, tucked away in a deep bay on the sunny east coast of the Peloponnese and it was the first capital of Independent Greece in the 1830s. Today, it is the capital and administrative centre of the prefecture of Argolida. This small seaport town is located in the north side of the Argolic Gulf, in a valley surrounded by mountains.
The mountains have provided ideal locations to build castles to watch over the town and they also offer enchanting views over the valley.
This is a picture-perfect postcard town, which is an important center of the ancient Greek civilization. It is a very popular tourist destination in the Peloponnese.
The lovely old town with its old mansions, narrow alleys, beautiful squares and paved paths has a neoclassical vibration that attracts visitors.
The Fortress of Bourtzi
Nafplio is a relaxed and appealing place with picturesque streets, green parks, small museums and outdoor cafes.
A Little Bit of History
Nafplio has a rich history that dates back to Neolithic period and its historical sites reflect the influences of its long past. The Byzantines, the Franks, the Venetians and the Turks were the successive rulers of Nafplio.
The View of Nafplio
In 1212, it was taken over by the crusaders of the French Army and in 1388 Nafplio was bought by the Republic of Venice.
In between this time the lower city was extended and fortified. The Ottomans captured the city in 1540, but the Venetians took over in 1685.
They built the Palamidi Castle to strengthen the city; however, Ottomans recaptured the city in 1715.
The town has a major role in the Greek War of Independence and due to its strong forts and walls the Greece government made it their seat of ruling.
Nafplio was officially made the capital of Greece in 1829 and it remained the capital until 1834. During this time the capital was moved to Athens by King Otto.
The Music Festival, Agios Anastassios’ Day and the Carnival are some of the famous festivals and events of Nafplio.
Some of the famous people from Nafplio are Nicolas the Greek, Nina Bawden, Leonidas Drosis, Angelos Terzakis, and others.
Where is Nafplio?
- 88.8 miles/ 143 km from Piraeus, Athens, Greece
- 36.7 miles/ 59.2 km from Corinth, Greece
- 113 miles/ 182 km from Patras, Greece
- 116.1 miles/ 187 km from Pirgos, Greece
- 85.7 miles/ 138 km from Athens, Greece
- 106.8 miles/ 172 km from Olympia, Greece
- 81.3 miles/ 131 km from Kalamata Airport, Greece
- 52 miles/ 83.7 km from Porto Cheli Airport, Greece
Things to See
- Agios Spiridonas Church
- Bourtzi Fortress
- Palamidi Fortress
- Agios Andreas Church
- Syntagma Square
- The Archeological Museum
- War Museum
- Agios George Cathedral
- The Promenade
Beaches
- Tolo Psili Ammos
- Karathona Beach
- Arvanitia Beach
Excursions
- Tolo
- Tiryns
Nafplio is a pleasant city with a wonderful port and a lively old town.
It makes a fine base to explore the Argolis and its archaeological sites.
We wish you a fantastic Mediterranean cruise!
