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SEE NAFPLIO GREECE

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Table of Contents: 
ARCHITECTURE.
FORTS.
THE TOWN.

See Nafplio. This town is a hidden gem on the Peloponesse. Although the ancient architecture is only a few rock walls, the Byzantine, Venetian, Ottoman, and Mycenaean Revival buildings more than makes up for it.

See Nafplio and its charming, pedestrian friendly, old town.
Nauplion’s Old Town.

There is not a lot of ancient architecture. Some may still be hiding, but most became building material for newer construction. After recycling, there are a few foundations and parts of a wall.

The oldest remains in the area of the city are those of the Acronauplia (Acropolis of Nauplion). These you can reach easily from the lower city/old town. They are in various stages of ruin.

But the old town has plenty of incredible architecture that is in good shape.

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Nafplio Architecture.

The growth of Nafplio flourishes during the Byzantine years. (330 – 1450 A.D.), New buildings are going up on the Greek and Hellenistic foundations.

After the sacking of Constantinople, (today’s Istanbul), the Franks (Germanic tribes), seize much of Greece including Nafplio. This is towards the end of the Fourth Crusade, (1204 A.D.)

In 1514, the Ottomans took control. Then the Venetians in 1685 (this is when they build the Castle of Palamidi).

Then the Ottomans in 1715, and finally the Greeks in 1827.

So Nafplio has had a lot of cooks in the kitchen. We all benefit from that.

The fortress of Palamidi offers views of the city as well as miles in every direction.
View from the Venetian fortress.

 

Much of the Nafplio architecture is one style built upon another. For instance, ancient Greek foundations support Venetian buildings.
They don’t build them like that anymore.

 

Dating from the 1800s, the hotel Grande Bretagne building is a well preserved neo classical structure.
Neoclassical buildings overlook Philellion Square.

 

Once a mosque, this building has also been a movie theater amongst other things.
Ottoman architecture is part of the mix.

 

The Venetian architecture is simple and strong. It frames other styles well.
The Venetian Armory is now the Archeological Museum.

 

Many of the buildings have pastel fronts with bold colors for the doors and windows.
The pastel colors enhance the architecture.

 

From the top to the bottom, the architecture is captivating. This church steeple is no exception.
No matter where you look, there are details.

You can spend a day just marveling at the architecture and all the small detail. Go inside the buildings as well as many have original parts exposed.

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See Nafplio Venetian Architecture.

The most visible contribution from the Venetians is the three fortifications. One high, One a little lower and one on water.

The thick walls and numerous rings walls withstood any attack from outside.
The Palamidi is a well-built fortress.

 

There was no sneaking up on this castle. Views are 360 degrees.
The views from the fort are commanding.
Going back to early Greek times, laying out a maze within made escaping an intruder easier. You will see Nafplio did a good job at this.
Steps and turns were part of the defense to confuse attackers.

 

The fort is massive in size. If had to house the soldiers as well as the towns people.
Until you are in the fortress, you do not realize its size.

 

Once the high point of the town, the Acronauplia now plays a back seet to the fortress but you can still see Nafplio.
The original Acropolis of the town, Acronauplia.

 

Sunrises and sunsets are great to watch from the Acronauplia.
The sea fortifications and the Acronauplia are worth a visit.

 

To protect the harbor, chains ran from this fort to the mainland.
The Bourtzi fort stands guard by day.

 

A new day begins to dawn over the Bourtzi fort. see Nafplio at dawn.
Pretty to see at sunrise or sunset.

The masculine Venetian architecture provides a frame around the citie’s other styles. You should see Nafplio from top to bottom.

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See Nafplio On the Street.

There is nothing better than to wander the streets of the old town. “Get lost” as it is effortless to find your way back.

Many of the streets are connected by staircases due to its hillside location.
Explore the many levels of the old town.

 

Greenery and flowers are important to Greek housewives. Bougainvillea is everywhere due to its low water requirements.
Bougainvillea compliments the pastel colors.

 

Everywhere they can find a nook or cranny, look for a garden. see Nafplio.
Ornate gates lead to beautiful gardens.

 

The architecture lends itself to quirky, yet charming places to sit and see Nafplio.
Inviting cafes and wine bars can break up the day.

 

Down every street there may be adventure waiting.
Where does this side street go?

 

A Greek taverna is never too many steps away. Many have outdoor seating to see Nafplio.
Grab some Greek food under a flower trellis.

 

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See Nafplio at Night.

A magical spell comes over the old town at night.
The tavernas take on a whole new persona at night

 

The Palimidi fort can be seen for miles, especially at night see Nafplio.
Dramatic lighting illuminates the fortress.

If you are going to be in Athens, you really need to see Nafplio. At least make it a day trip. Better yet, see Nafplio and the Peloponesse.

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