Nafplio
A walk around Nafplio (also Nafplion) is quite literally like stepping back into the past, with so much history lining its streets. The picturesque Venetian port town has seen many visitors come and go over the centuries, all of whom have left their mark in some shape or form. So why not take a wander and explore the enchanting corners of Nafplio's Old Town?
Syntagma (Constitution) Square is a great place to begin. In this one spot you can find a Venetian arsenal (1713), a medieval mosque (1500s) and the National Bank (1930), with Vouleftiko (Parliament) standing opposite the square. Once an Ottoman mosque (1730), it became the first Parliament of the Greeks in 1825 and is now also a concert hall. Behind it lies a wonderful example of Venetian architecture and what used to be the home of Aga Pasha (1715). The Three Admirals' Square (Plateia Trion Navarchon) is named after the three heroes of the Battle of Navarino (1827) and it is encompassed by elegant neoclassical buildings such as the Town Hall (1857), as well as being the site of the once stately home of King Otto, which is now marked by his statue.
The Old Town beckons you to enjoy an amble amongst the geranium-lined paved pedestrian streets, with stops on the way for an iced coffee or a light snack before checking out some of the fascinating museums. Each one has a story to tell you about the town's past and the Archaeological Museum in Syntagma Square has a wonderful exhibition of artefacts from the Argolis region. The National Gallery can be found in a beautiful 1907 building while the War Museum resides in Greece's first military academy, built in 1828. If it is local customs that you are interested in, the Folklore Museum displays various interesting exhibits such as costumes, jewelry and furniture. The unique Komboloi Museum offers an amazing collection of kombolois, or worry beads, made from precious materials like amber and ivory.
Continue exploring the town's important past in the Public Library of Nafplio, which you will find in an 1887 neoclassical house with over 70,000 books and manuscripts, and then head over to Syngrou Street for a visit to the Armansperg Residence. Originally Venetian, the elegant building was rebuilt in 1831 and was home to a Bavarian Count and Prime Minister.
Away from the grand facades, the area around the Akronafplia Fortress hides another part of Nafplio's history: Psaromachalas was the fishermen's neighbourhood and you can still find their modest houses in the narrow alleyways, offering a timeless window into traditional life. Wherever you wander in this romantic town, you are sure to enjoy every step so make sure to bring your hiking shoes!
