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The town of Nafplion was the first capital of the newly liberated Greece before Athens after the war of independence but in reality Nafplio's story starts around 2000 years ago, when it was used as a port for the ancient city of Argos. Due to it's natural, strategic position it has always been a valuable asset during history. That's why Nafplion has been occupied by many conquerors including the Byzantines, the Venetians , the Franks and the Ottomans. Each phase of history has left its own architectural characteristics and stories, making Nafplion a fascinating historical point on the Greek map. There are three castles in the old city of Nafplio, the Palamidi which towers above the town, the Bourtzi in the harbour and the Acronafplia castle above the old town.
The castle of Acronafplia sits above the Old Town of Nafplio, completing the atmosphere and remind locals & visitors of Nafplio's history. It offers wonderful paths to walk in from the narrow streets or the Arvanitia Beach. Acronafplia was continually added to, with some parts of the walls dating back to Mycenaean times up to the Byzantine era. Today you can find the small church of Saint Anargyroi built in the 1830s and a small amphitheatre used for the Acronafplia Festival as well as other events. See the Clock Tower and explore the ruins of the castle for an exciting experience.
This is Nafplio's most imposing castle, standing tall above the city on a 216m hill the Palamidi is an impressive Venitian-built fortress constructed in 1711-1714 during the second Venitian occupation of Nafplio. Due to it's position if played an important role during every siege of Nafplio after it's construction. In times is had different uses such as the prison of one of the Greek Revolution's Heroes Theodoros Kolokotronis or the site of public executions in Nafplion. Climb the 999 steps to the top and take your times exploring the bastions, the towers and gates and appreciate its grandure.
Bourtzi is one of the most iconic castles in Greece, it was built by the Venitians to protect Nafplio harbour from invasions and unwanted entries. This small sea fortress also went through a number of different uses, such as the accommodation of Nafplio's executioner, and a hotel in the 70s. Situated right in the middle of Nafplio port it offers amazing views and creates a unique atmosphere. It is accessible by water-taxis, small boats the take visitors from the harbour to Bourtzi and back.
The church of Agios Spyridon is part of one of Nafplio's darkest moments in history, it was the place where Ioannis Kapodistrias, Greece's First Governor was shot and killed while on his way to Sunday mass. From the outside it seems humble and modest but the churches interior is a beautiful, wonderful site full of intricate details making it well worth a visit.
Agia Sophia is a small church hidden in the narrow streets of Nafplio's Old Town, speculated to have been built during Byzantine times. Close to the "Five Brothers" Bastion it the perfect place to take a break after strolling through the Old Town streets. This little church was also the only Christian church allowed to open in 1779-1780 duting the second Ottoman occupation.
The Archeaological Museum in Nafplio is housed in a building built by the Venetians and used as a storage for gunpowder & other naval equipment. Today it offer every visitor a glimpse into the area's past with findings dating all the way back from the Bronze Ages up to the Roman & Byzantine eras. See the famous "Dendra Armour" as well as numerous other artifacts and findings from all over the Argolida.
Syntagma Square in Nafplio, used to be and still is a great gathering place in the town's heart. A site of historical importance that was used as a place of congregation and facilitated the first political discussions after Greece's Liberation. The Archeaological Museum is found at one side of the square while the "Vouleftiko" building, Greece's first parliament building is a few steps away. Definetely a must visit for a walk or simply a relaxing coffee.
You can also e-mail us at info@karoniswineshop.gr or karonisd@otenet.gr to contact us or to make a reservation.