Nafplio is a city with rich historical interest and was the capital of the First Hellenic Republic, located in Eastern Peloponnese 140 km from the center of Athens. According to mythology, the town was originally founded by Nafplios, the son of god Poseidon. The town’s history traces back to the prehistoric era when soldiers from here participated in the Argonautic expedition and the Trojan War alike.
Additionally, Nafplio was an important seaport held under a succession of royal houses in the Middle Ages as part of the lordship of Argos and Nauplia, held initially by the de la Roche following the Fourth Crusade before coming under the Republic of Venice and, lastly, the Ottoman Empire.
If you decide to visit Nafplio you will be mesmerized by the beauty of the ancient walls, medieval castles, monuments and statues, Ottoman fountains, and Venetian or neoclassical buildings.
Above the city of Nafplio, stands the famous Palamidi castle. To reach it you will have to climb 999 steps carved into the rock and if you manage to reach the top of the castle you will be rewarded by the amazing view. The most photographed spot of Nafplio is Bourtzi, the Venetian small fortress standing on the rocky islet of Agioi Theodoroi. In the summer you can reach the fortress by boat and if you are lucky enough you may even be able to witness one of the fascinating festivals taking place there.
