Greece - Nafplio

Nafplio (or Nafplion) was the first capital of the newly born Greek state - after a Turkish occupation - between 1823 and 1834. It is situated along the Argolic Gulf in the north-eastern part of the Peloponnesus, just a couple of hours by car from Athens. The city with a small port is built on a small peninsula beneath the towering Palamidi fortress.

According to mythology, the town was founded by Nafplios, the son of god Poseidon and the daughter of Danaus Anymone. The history traces back to the prehistoric era when soldiers from here participated in the Argonautic expedition and the Trojan War alike. The town declined during the Roman times and flourished again during the Byzantine times. Frankish, Venetian and Turkish conquerors left their mark in the town and strongly influenced its culture, architecture and traditions during the centuries.

It is said that Nafplio is one of the most prettiest and romantic towns of Greece. After our visit I fully agree with that. It was such a pleasure strolling through the medieval old town with its narrow streets, lined with small shops, boutiques, (art) galleries, cafés and restaurants. Well preserved mansions with their architecture and beauty were on many places full with blooming jasmine and bougainvillea. .