Nafplio (also spelled Nafplion) is one of Greece’s most beautiful and historically significant coastal cities. Located in the Argolis region of the Peloponnese, just under two hours from Athens, it is often described as a “living museum” due to its remarkably preserved architecture and strategic fortresses.

Historical Significance

Nafplio is most famous for being the first capital of modern Greece (from 1827 to 1834) following the War of Independence against the Ottoman Empire.

• The Firsts: It was the site of the first Greek Parliament, the first military academy, and even the first pharmacy in the new nation.

• The Assassination: In 1831, Greece’s first head of state, Ioannis Kapodistrias, was assassinated on the steps of the Church of Saint Spyridon; a bullet hole is still visible in the wall today.

• Layers of History: The city’s look is a “patchwork” of its conquerors, featuring Mycenaean walls, Frankish fortifications, Venetian mansions, and Ottoman mosques.

Key Landmarks

The city is dominated by three distinct fortresses:

• Palamidi Castle: A massive Venetian fortress perched 216 meters above the town. You can reach it by car or by climbing the famous 999 steps (though the actual count is slightly fewer). It offers panoramic views of the Argolic Gulf.
• Bourtzi Castle: A small, picturesque fortress located on an islet in the middle of the harbor. Once home to the city’s executioners, it is now the city’s “trademark” and accessible by a short boat ride.
• Akronafplia: The oldest part of the city, with walls dating back to prehistoric times. It sits on a rocky peninsula directly above the Old Town.

Cultural & Travel Highlights

Nafplio is a favorite year-round destination for both Greeks and international travelers.

The historic center of Nafplio

The architecture of the old (lower) city reflects the historical development of Nafplio, with a variety of architectural types that nevertheless give an image of homogeneity.  The Kapodistrias period between 1828-1831 was decisive for the city’s the urban planning and reconstruction.

• Nafplion Archaeological Museum:  is housed in a magnificent Venetian stone mansion built in 1713 during the second period of Venetian rule, originally serving as a naval warehouse. 
• Syntagma Square Mosque: also so-called Vouletiko, was preserved from the Second Ottoman period.
• The Old Town: A pedestrian-friendly maze of narrow marble-paved streets, neoclassical buildings, and squares (like the grand Syntagma Square) draped in purple bougainvillea.
• Arvanitia Promenade: A scenic 1km seaside walk that hugs the base of the Akronafplia rocks, leading from the harbor to Arvanitia Beach.
• Specialties: The town is famous for its production of komboloi (worry beads), and even hosts a dedicated Komboloi Museum.
• Strategic Hub: It serves as the perfect base for visiting nearby UNESCO World Heritage sites like Mycenae, Tiryns, and the Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus.
• Romantic Vibe: The combination of historic squares, seaside vistas, and warm lighting at night makes it a premier destination for couples and weekend getaways from Athens.