The Roman Catholic Church of the Transfiguration of the Savior in the city of Nafplio as a sign of mourning for the passing of Pope Francis The local Catholic community has expressed deep sorrow following the Pope’s death and is observing a period of reflection and prayer The closure of the church serves as a symbolic gesture of respect and reverence for the late Pontiff the Patriarchate of Jerusalem solemnly celebrated the Sunday of the Myrrh-Bearing Women... Archbishop Elpidophoros of America celebrated the Divine Liturgy at the Monastery of the Theotokos.. it was announced that two Roman Catholic institutions in Bavaria have decided to jointly.. A car once used by Pope Francis during his 2014 visit to Bethlehem is being transformed into a mobile.. the Monastery of Saint Vlash in Albania hosted a festal Divine Liturgy on the.. Archbishop Ieronymos of Athens and All Greece presided over the festal Great Vespers at the historic.. (function() { window.mc4wp = window.mc4wp || { listeners: [] cb) { window.mc4wp.listeners.push( { event : evt callback: cb } ); } } }})(); © 2023 OrthodoxTimes.com - All rights reserved. Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. This category only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the website. These cookies do not store any personal information. Any cookies that may not be particularly necessary for the website to function and is used specifically to collect user personal data via analytics, ads, other embedded contents are termed as non-necessary cookies. It is mandatory to procure user consent prior to running these cookies on your website. A 72-year-old woman is accused of fatally wounding a 50-year-old man who allegedly tried to rob her in Nafplio, in the northeastern Peloponnese, on Wednesday. According to police reports, the 50-year-old man made off with 60 euros in cash from the woman, a fruit vendor, while she was working at her stall after allegedly threatening her with a knife. In response, the 72-year-old is said to have pushed him and stabbed at him with a sharp object she was holding in her hand before the man fled the scene and the woman called the police to report the robbery. Officers later discovered the 50-year-old’s body in an orange grove about 100 meters from the scene of the incident. They also recovered two knives with blade lengths of 11 and 20 centimeters. The 72-year-old woman was arrested on manslaughter charges and is expected to appear before a prosecutor. Enter your information below to receive our weekly newsletters with the latest insights, opinion pieces and current events straight to your inbox. Cloudy with more rounds of showers and possibly some downpours or a t-storm. A view from the Palamidi Fortress in Nafplio, Greece.  Amelia and a friend from her study abroad program walk down a path at Blueblanc Beach in Nafplio, Greece.  A shore of Bluebanc Beach in Nafplio, Greece.  Before 2023, I had never left the country, and until this past month, I had yet to leave the continent. So, you could certainly say I’m not a well-seasoned traveler, especially internationally. However, during my study abroad program, I’ve loved to explore new regions and places. Last week, as part of my three-month history and Mediterranean studies abroad program, we left Athens for the weekend to tour the ancient archaeological site of Delphi. Tucked between Mount Parnassus is a small, picturesque town with local, family-run businesses and restaurants. Delphi is a beautiful, rural town rich in ancient Greek history that’s about two and a half hours from Athens. Located about a quarter mile from downtown Delphi is its Panhellenic sanctuary of Apollo. This archaeological site provides visitors with first-hand evidence and historical insight into ancient Greece. Built in the 8th century B.C., this famous location is known for the Oracle of Delphi and the sanctuaries of Greek Gods like Apollo and Athena. The stunning landscape and authentic beauty of this landmark simply radiate around you as you tour the location. As an American, our country is filled with detailed history, yet in comparison to ancient Greece ruins, it puts into perspective just how young our nation is. Getting to spend the weekend outside of the city was such a breath of fresh air (literally, you could see nothing but mountains for miles). During the trip’s duration, I was in awe at how every sanctuary at the Delphi site is thousands of years old. After spending most of my life staying in the U.S., I’ve familiarized myself with American history. Traveling in Europe has allowed me to explore cultural history dating back centuries. We left Delphi and returned to Athens for our classes. This past weekend, we packed our bags again and traveled to the Argolís region of Greece, staying in a beautiful coastal town called Nafplio. We tried new seafood, immersed ourselves in a cultural costume parade at Syntagma Square in the center of Nafplio, spent a day at the beach, walked along the harbor and even took a boat to a small island to tour a former prison. I feel fortunate as someone who hasn’t traveled outside of the U.S. to experience seeing multiple new places for the first time. Traveling abroad has truly opened so many new doors for me. I hiked Mount Parnassus, swam in the Aegean Sea and had the privilege to visit countless archaeological sites this past week and a half. Having the ability to spend an entire semester of college taking trips every weekend across Greece — and Europe — has changed my outlook on getting out of my comfort zone and helped me fall in love with traveling to new places. From protesters on college campuses tearing down our nation’s flag to Italian graffiti eloquently telling its American visitors to go f— themselves, there’s a loud minority of people all over the world hating on the United States. After being in Greece for one month, I’ve learned about the political climate, culture and how Greeks view American democracy and politics. Your browser is out of date and potentially vulnerable to security risks.We recommend switching to one of the following browsers: Get up-to-the-minute news sent straight to your device. Expat shares the best thing about living in Portugal Moving abroad to a foreign country can be an exciting experience An expat has shared "the biggest mistake" he made when he moved from London to Nafplio in Greece in 2010 Daniel Carrizalez spoke on his YouTube channel (@MovingForward) about how "not networking in the early days" of his move abroad made him lonely The expat said not making connections with people was his 'biggest mistake' Daniel explained that he is "not a Facebook kind of guy" so he did not consider joining an expat group The expat said: "When I relocated from the UK to Greece I became a stay-at-home Dad and have been in the house since I work from home as a music composer and sell my music online but you do not see that this lifestyle has deprived me over the years of networking and connecting with other people Making connections and friends was extremely hard because I worked from home." The expat encouraged joining Facebook groups and connecting with others before you make the big move abroad He stated: "One of the biggest mistakes many people make is isolating themselves Either because they do not speak the language or do not know how to integrate into the community." Take the time to "connect with people in Greece" and make friends with those in positions similar to yours Daniel took a unique approach to meeting new people through his YouTube channel where he "discusses life as a foreigner in Greece" The expat said: "Creating my YouTube channel has been the best decision of my life I have now met so many people across the world and here in the community "It has opened the door to many opportunities I would not have encountered any other way "These doors would not have been in front of me if I had not put myself out there on my YouTube channel." Another expat has shared the "negative" aspects of life in a Spanish coastal town Geo in Spain warned that while she does love her home in Malaga its popularity with tourists can prove irritating - particularly during the summer The expat admitted: "There are some things I don't like." pubs and restaurants are "super busy" with visitors during this peak period meaning those who live there can struggle to find seating Sign In Subscribe Now Lake City Secondary School (LCSS) touring band students played a concert in the first Hellenic Parliament in Greece on March 17.  But performing in something as historic as one of the building blocks of free and democratic societies and home of the first Hellenic Parliament from fall of 1825 to spring of 1826, did not intimidate the young musicians The young players still apparently "killed it" in the ancient building in Nafplio The band students and their chaperones are in the coastal city March 17 and will board a ferry on March 18 to head to Italy They will be going from Port of Patras in Greece to Port of Bari on the Adriatic Sea in southeast Italy where an entire city was frozen in time when it was covered in ash from the eruption of Mount Vesuvious in 79 AD A post shared by Whitney Spearing (@whitney.spearing) is taking some time off work to tag along on the tour with her son enjoying the combination of concerts and historical attractions Dialogue and debate are integral to a free society and we welcome and encourage you to share your views on the issues of the day. We ask that you be respectful of others and their points of view, refrain from personal attacks and stay on topic. To learn about our commenting policies and how our community-based moderation works, please read our Community Guidelines An Exodios Akolouthia (Funeral Rite Liturgy) for Nikos Andrianakos was held in Nafplio accompanied by the Nafplio Philharmonic Orchestra and attended by family His casket was carried to the Church of Saint Anastasios on Wednesday Andrianakos one of Australia’s wealthiest Greek expatriates at the age of 81 after suffering a cardiac arrest while in Argolis for an investment project he grew up on a farm before migrating to Melbourne at 22 head of the family’s business empire in Australia traveled to Greece to accompany his father’s body back to Melbourne where he will be laid to rest alongside his wife in the family plot “I didn’t know there would be a funeral service here,” Theo told local media The passing of Nikos Andrianakos has been met with an outpouring of grief in the Greek Australian community and friends sending condolences and honouring his legacy NAFPLIO – In the Argolida region of southern Greece water escapes through cracks in an irrigation canal feeding a plain of orange trees old pipes lose more than half the water that is pumped through them authorities in the regional capital Nafplion advise residents not to drink the contaminated brackish water that is pumped from backup sources into their homes “You can smell the difference in the water feel the dryness on your clothes,” said Lydia Sarakinioti a jeweler in Nafplio who uses bottled water even to cook the EU launched a campaign to combat a climate change-driven water crisis that it says already affects 38% of its population It has given EU countries until next year to assess leakage levels before a legal threshold is imposed The program to increase water security is expected to cost hundreds of billions of euros and comes as countries across southern Europe experience more erratic rainfall and hotter temperatures linked to climate change which lies on Europe’s baking southern frontier shows just how complex and costly change will be Last summer and winter were the warmest on record and many places saw no rainfall for months a crippling 2009-18 debt crisis has led to years of underinvestment Greece loses around half its drinking water from leaky pipes and theft government figures show – nearly twice the EU average of 23% Most maps of its underground pipeline network are either not digitized or do not exist Greece has spent more than 1.5 billion euros on drinking water infrastructure since 2019 an agricultural hub that produces roughly a third of Greece’s oranges and we are trying to gradually tackle them all,” said Socrates Doris the head of Nafplio”s municipal drinking water provider He said that the company was seeking EU funding to help Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis promised to make fixes to Argolida’s water problems when he visited in November including extending the irrigation network and providing a desalination unit to dissolve salts in water Government officials say fundamental fixes are needed first what’s the point of buying a new desalination unit or drilling a well?“ said Petros Varelidis the Environment Ministry’s secretary general for water resources “The needs are a lot bigger than the resources available.” water scarcity leads to poor water quality authorities boost it with brackish water from a submarine spring Tests commissioned by water authorities from June to November in 2022-24 showed higher than permitted levels of chlorides and sodium in those sources which can affect people with blood pressure or kidney issues only 8% of the 13,500 residents have permanent access to safe drinking water according to local authorities’ data submitted to Parliament Most residents rely on plastic bottled water which creates its own environmental problems such as the washing machine,” said resident Evi Leventi farmers dig up to 300 metres below the surface in search of water It often comes up too salty because sea water has seeped into depleted underground aquifers “Every drop of water is indispensable… We pin our hopes on rainy winters,” said farmer George Mavras Enter your information below to receive our weekly newsletters with the latest insights opinion pieces and current events straight to your inbox A 14-year-old boy has died after falling from a height in a stadium in the town of Nafplio in the Peloponnese Initial reports said the boy fell from a considerable height at the town’s municipal stadium shortly after 1 p.m The teenager was found by a security guard Police are investigating the circumstances of the accident a luxury cruise ship built by Fincantieri of Italy for Seabourn Cruise Line docked at Nafplio in the eastern Peloponnese the 210-meter ultra-luxurious ship carrying over 560 passengers Several visitorsstayed in the city center and toured it while others chose to visit nearby archaeological sites In the tranquil wetlands between Nafplio and Nea Kios in Argolida in southern Greece a flamboyance of flamingos makes a striking tableau against the Greek landscape known for their iconic pink plumage and graceful movements are drawn to the region’s rich biodiversity which provides a crucial stopover during their migration researchers recently identified a remarkable individual: a 15-year-old flamingo first tagged as a chick in Turkey in 2009 highlights the importance of wetland ecosystems like these for the survival of migratory birds The wetlands serve as rest stops where flamingos can feed on small crustaceans and algae The area forms part of a larger network of habitats critical for migratory species across the Mediterranean and beyond ShareSaveCommentLifestyleForbesLifeHow To Have The Perfect Weekend In Greece’s NafplioByKatie Kelly Bell Forbes contributors publish independent expert analyses and insights Katie Kelly Bell covers the latest in wine 10:39am EDTShareSaveCommentThis article is more than 3 years old.GREECE - AUGUST 24: The bay in front of the fortified citadel of Acronafplia More island with Castel da Mar (Sea castle) is an easy two-hour drive from Athens and offers everything from beaches and shopping to ancient sites and wine tasting The architecture of Nafplio is actually Venetian but the region is dense with ancient Greek history and loads of touring options If you prefer to skip a day of touring ancient sites you can always opt to swim in the sea and idle at a café with a glass of Assyrtiko; Nafplio really does have it all The warren of pedestrian friendly streets in the Old Town is home to endless shopping with everything from olive wood objects to jewelry What Nafplio does best is serve as a nearby ideal base for exploring some of Greece’s most significant ancient sites such as Mycenae and Epidavros One can easily fill two nights here—with mornings dedicated to the ancient sites and afternoons to relaxing or shopping And don’t forget to budget time to visit the wineries Exterior of 3Sixty Suites hotel and restaurant in Nafplio Tourists perform at the Ancient theatre of Epaidavros An early start from Nafplio will put you at Mycenae in 30 minutes with ample time to explore the ruins of the ancient wonder before the tour bus crowds from Athens descend This is where the inspiration for Homer’s Epic started and the nearby Treasury of Atreus (also called Agamemnon’s Tomb) may have been the Mycenean leader’s burial site the smart visitor will head indoors to explore the remarkable museum with many preserved finds from Mycenae Also just a 20-30 minute drive from Nafplio is Epidavros home to a beautifully well-preserved ancient Greek theatre (with extraordinary acoustics) It is an expansive site and was best known during its time as a wellness and healing retreat Be sure to experiment with the impeccable acousitcs while visiting the theatre—send one person to the very top back row to listen while another remains below at centerstage and speaks Your friends in the cheap seats will hear it all Latest UpdatesCountries Why Join?IL MagazineFree Daily E-LetterVideoOur ExpertsTestimonialsFAQsTopics Lynn Roulo left her life as a finance professional San Francisco Greece has long been a beloved summer destination it has become an increasingly popular choice for retirees seeking a relaxing place to spend their golden years—and for expats looking for a change of pace If you’re considering making Greece your new home here are five of the best places to settle down—along with two that might not be the right fit Learn more about Antikythera and other hidden places in Greece and other countries in our free daily postcard e-letter Simply enter your email address below and we'll also send you a FREE REPORT — Retire in Greece—Find Your Dream Retirement in This European Archipelago If you’ve always dreamed of island living but are wary of the Greek islands’ winter slowdowns, Chania in Crete could be the perfect place for you. Crete—roughly the size of Delaware—is Greece’s largest island and one of the few with an economy not entirely reliant on tourism Chania (pronounced “han-ia”) is the second-largest city on the island it’s renowned for its picturesque Venetian harbor The city also offers excellent practical benefits: a large port Chania offers plenty of opportunities to connect with others Blessed with around 300 sunny days each year it’s one of the brightest cities in Europe Chania strikes the perfect balance between modern convenience and traditional Cretan culture located in the southwestern part of mainland Greece is an ideal home base for those seeking a blend of beach and city living offering easy access to all the amenities of Athens while boasting beaches that rival those of the country’s best islands the drive from Athens now takes around 2.5 hours by car Kalamata also has its own international airport (KLX) The cost of living in Kalamata is lower than in Athens sunny summers—ideal for outdoor activities year-round The year-round population of around 70,000 swells during the summer months as tourists flock to the area Kalamata’s central location in the Peloponnese makes it a perfect base for exploring the surrounding coast you can take the scenic drive to the village of Kardamili in under an hour to enjoy the annual Kardamili Jazz Festival Kalamata is a great choice for those looking to enjoy a relaxed yet vibrant lifestyle in Greece Naxos, a beautiful, low-profile island in the same group as Santorini and Mykonos Known as “the cheese island of Greece,” Naxos is famous for both its graviera cheese which grow in the island’s rich volcanic soil and are known for their distinctive flavor and texture The largest island in the Cyclades group—with an area of about 170 square miles (430 square kilometers)—Naxos offers geographic diversity ranging from rugged mountains to lush valleys and stunning beaches The island has a year-round population of about 20,000 residents mostly concentrated in or near the capital town Unlike more tourist-heavy islands like Santorini and Mykonos making it an ideal destination for those seeking a quieter The cost of living in Naxos is relatively affordable and utilities compared to more popular tourist destinations in Greece Healthcare services are sufficient for general needs and residents have access to more specialized medical care on nearby larger islands or in Athens if needed The island’s welcoming community and slower-paced life make Naxos an appealing choice for those looking to enjoy a peaceful home in a beautiful setting Located on the eastern Peloponnese coast, about two hours by car from Athens, the city of Nafplio offers stunning views of the Aegean Sea and historic sites like the Palamidi Fortress and Bourtzi Castle The city is best known for the Palamidi Fortress a Venetian structure perched on a hilltop overlooking the town and the famous 999 steps visitors must climb to reach it Nafplio is highly walkable thanks to its compact size yet remains vibrant with a welcoming community of both locals and expats With a full-time population of approximately 25,000 people the cost of living is relatively affordable compared to larger cities like Athens with good hospitals and clinics located in the nearby city of Argos With easy access to Athens and other Greek destinations Nafplio offers a balanced mix of peaceful living and proximity to modern conveniences making it another solid option as a place to call home For those seeking an active, dynamic, and vibrant city, Athens is a wonderful choice the city has been referred to as the “new Berlin” for its emerging art Athena—the goddess of wisdom—Athens weaves together rich history It has the biggest airport in Greece (ATH) and a relatively efficient public transportation system that includes a metro Athens is home to some of the best healthcare facilities in Greece you can expect a higher cost of living than in other parts of the country it still compares favorably to most other European capital cities The cities listed below aren’t necessarily bad choices—everyone has different preferences these two cities lack the ideal mix of qualities that make a destination well-suited for foreigners looking to relocate to Greece about 95 miles (153 kilometers) from Thessaloniki Kavala is a beautiful coastal city with a mix of ancient Greek ruins with fewer international amenities compared to other popular expat-friendly locations in Greece economic struggles have led to some neglected areas Some roads and public spaces feel worn down and there’s a lack of large-scale shopping or entertainment Kavala has fewer expat communities and less international support Heraklion is the largest city on the island of Crete While Crete itself offers stunning landscapes Heraklion can feel overwhelming due to traffic and pollution As the administrative and economic center of the island the city is busy and often noisy—you can expect loud motorbikes Not particularly known for its charm or aesthetic appeal Heraklion is dominated by post-war concrete buildings making it less attractive for those seeking nature within city limits The city doesn’t have a metro or train system housing prices here are higher than in other parts of the island due to the dense population Heraklion does have some redeeming features including nearby beaches and easy access to the ancient Minoan ruins of Knossos towns like Chania or Rethymno may offer a more appealing lifestyle Greece offers a wide range of living experiences from bustling cities to serene island retreats Whether you’re drawn to the rich history of Athens The beauty of Greece is that there are so many incredible options to choose from By considering your personal preferences and practical needs you can find the perfect place to enjoy your new home in this beautiful Mediterranean paradise The following destinations in Greece may not be as popular as the islands gecha / Unsplash View Tour With its amazing architecture and sandy beaches, Kavala is Ottoman buildings and relics of Byzantine churches that give away the city’s centuries-old history Among the highlights are Egyptian ruler Muhammad Ali’s 19th-century Imaret and the Unesco-protected Archaeological Site of Philippi Don’t miss a chance to swim in the green-blue waters of Ammolofoi Beach or learn all about Kavala’s longstanding tobacco history at the fascinating Tobacco Museum uta_scholl / unsplash View Tour Greece’s very first capital, Nafplio experienced great prosperity in the early 1800s mainly through the beautiful Neoclassical architecture that blends with chic Venetian touches Visit the grandiose Palamidi fortress – it’s worth climbing the 999 steps to the top – and the romantic Bourtzi Castle sitting on an islet in the middle of the harbour; Bourtzi once protected Nafplio from invaders and pirates Stroll past sophisticated mansions and little shops before grabbing a mouthwatering gelato from Antica Gelateria di Roma The best views in town await at Kastraki-Meteoro a fairytale-like bar-restaurant resembling a medieval fortress complete with little towers and shining armour This comes alive through the Nautical and Historical Museum as well as the picturesque port dotted with lovely boats and fancy yachts Busy cafés and Neoclassical houses with pebbled courtyards line the waterfront while some of the old captains’ mansions now serve as fully equipped guest houses The town is especially popular with Athenians who visit at the end of the carnival season for the famous rainbow-coloured flour fight Sign up to our newsletter to save up to $800 on our unique trips See privacy policy george_mitropoulos / unsplash View Tour One of the most ancient towns in Greece Nafpaktos has a rich history that goes all the way back to 1,104 BCE Lying in the foothills of the Pindus Mountains it is known for its picturesque surrounding villages Walk along cobbled alleyways and you’ll soon find your way to the imposing castle; the view from the hill over the Rio-Antirrio Bridge and the Corinthian Gulf is spectacular You are bound to fall in love with the charming Venetian port and with the abundance of trees and dreamy springs in Northern Nafpaktia just a short drive away from Nafpaktos town Parga’s sister seaside village along the Epirus Riviera This tropical paradise boasts pink-sand beaches and mirror-like waters such as those of Pisina Beach; its name fittingly means “pool” Pit Stock / Shutterstock Also known as Navarino, Pylos was a kingdom-town in Mycenaean Greece, with the astonishing palace of King Nestor still largely preserved on the hill of Epano Eglianos. The town’s regal past is present in the elegant, whitewashed houses and in the stylish, sprawling Costa Navarino resort which is super-popular with Hollywood actors Enjoy a glass of strong ouzo in the shade of sycamore trees at the Three Admirals’ Square and take in the infinite coastal views from Palaiokastro Castle Make sure to swim in the milky waters of Polylimnio Aerial-motion / shutterstock Dramatic mountain ranges dense forests and winding hiking trails are some of the reasons why Karpenisi is frequently called the “Little Switzerland of Greece” shimmering lakes and waterfalls gushing out of steep cliffs Some of Karpenisi’s most spectacular beaches are formed by the waters of the vast Acheloos River rafting or dancing during a wild river party in August Don’t leave without trying the staple sausage with leek or a traditional cheese pie from the sweet-smelling bakeries See & Do The Best European Cities to Visit in October Guides & Tips The Best European Cities to Visit in December See & Do The Best European Cities to Visit in July See & Do The Best European Cities to Visit in Spring Guides & Tips This Is Europe's Ultimate Road Trip See & Do Lesser-Known Summer Destinations to Visit in Europe See & Do The Best European Cities to Visit in Summer See & Do The Best European Cities to Visit in Autumn Guides & Tips The Best European Cities to Visit in November Guides & Tips Beat the Crowds with these Alternative Summer Destinations See & Do The Best European Cities to Visit in September Guides & Tips The Best Places to Travel in August US: +1 (678) 967 4965 | UK: +44 (0)1630 35000 tripssupport@theculturetrip.com © Copyright 2025 The Culture Trip Ltd When travelers think about Greece, they probably think of hot spots like Athens, Santorini I've spent 15 years writing guidebooks about Greece so I know a lot of great hidden gems Here's where I recommend visiting to get a flavor of authentic Greece Rhodes was one of the first island destinations I explored for my guidebook work Admittedly, the island does get busy with all-inclusive crowds who come to relax on the many beaches But the part I really fell in love with was Rhodes Old Town making it a great place to visit in any season When I take the ferry into Symi Harbor I always make sure I'm out on the deck with my camera ready I never get tired of the view of the colorful Venetian-style mansions tumbling down the hillside Although the island isn't famous for its beaches a small sheltered cove with a narrow strip of sand surrounded by vegetation — and the occasional goat I love Hydra for several reasons, mainly because cars and motorcycles aren't allowed here. Instead, the island features the world's largest herd of working equines you'll be greeted by the horsemen who line their animals up to transport your luggage to your hotel but you can swim directly off the Spilia bathing platforms along the coastal path next to Hydra Town I also recommend checking out the town's many fashion and jewelry boutiques Sometimes referred to as an island within the mainland the Peloponnese region is surrounded by water It connects to the mainland at two points: the Corinth Canal and the Rio-Antirrio Bridge This stunning area has a mix of mountains and long stretches of beautiful beaches SEARCHThe global authority in superyachting the chairman of the Greek Yachting Association (GYA) will open the 9th edition of the Mediterranean Yacht Show (MEDYS) in Nafplion The five-day charter show (from 27 April to 1 May) promises to be another record-breaking year with 102 yachts planning to attend along with 438 brokers and 33 exhibitors hailing from 27 different countries Facilitated by the GYA with the crucial support of the Municipality of Nafplion the yacht show is poised to place a spotlight on the Greek charter market along with the fleet and cruising potential the 9th MEDYS is brimming with social gatherings discussions and competitions that illustrate the breadth of the Greek market The show is an official marker of the Mediterranean season and after the ceremonial sounding of the horns the 102 yachts will kick off their charter season in Greek waters The 9th edition of the show also sees the return of the prodigious chef’s competition. The competition offers yacht chefs a platform to demonstrate their culinary competence and unleash their creativity, presenting Greek gastronomy at its finest. This year’s challenge pays tribute to the wider area that has been hosting the show for years, Argolida, and its rich lands with the theme: Cooking the Orange. Participating chefs are challenged to craft their finest main course dishes, celebrating the orange's versatility. The competition will be judged by chef George Papazacharias of the two Michelin-starred, Delta Restaurant in Athens and Michelin-starred chef Luca Piscazzi, of the Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel Athens. As official media partners, BOAT will be reporting on the ground on social media channels. Latest news, brokerage headlines and yacht exclusives, every weekday SubscribeSign up to our newslettersSign up to BOAT International email newsletters to get the latest superyacht news, business analysis, exclusive event invitations, and more. Boat International Media Ltd © 2008 - 2025. Content presented under the "BOAT Presents" logo is an advertising feature and Boat International Limited has been paid to include this content. The quaint Peloponnesian town exudes charm year-round, providing an ideal retreat for romance, family gatherings, and peaceful getaways. Nafplio’s cinematographically scenic Old Town is its focal point, and justifiably so. Here you can enjoy a wonderful variety of seductive moments: long strolls, a visit to the Bourtzi, a trek up to the Palamidi castle, harbor front cocktail, romantic meals in narrow side streets under shocking pink bougainvillea draping from balconies, and hours of window shopping at cute designer stores. At one end is Acronafplia, with the sea at the other, and Syntagma Square and the pedestrian street of Vasileos Konstantinou in between. From the square to the sea, there are four to five narrow streets lined with colorful mansions, flower-filled courtyards, guesthouses, tavernas, gelaterias and cafes bustling with people, especially on weekends. Here we suggest some of the very best accommodation options in this beautiful city. Hotel Ippoliti captures the spirit of Nafplio’s Venetian past with a timeless elegance. The lobby features leather sofas and Italian design touches, while golden chandeliers hang above stenciled walls, evoking the grandeur of Venetian palazzos. Rich chestnut furniture and marble floors continue the sense of old-world luxury throughout the property. The rooms are spacious and comfortable, many offering balconies for a bit of outdoor relaxation. This well-maintained guesthouse seamlessly blends traditional elements with contemporary comforts, ensuring a pleasant stay for all guests. Each room is equipped with modern conveniences while maintaining a cozy, homely feel. The “Chrysippi” suite is particularly noteworthy, featuring a inviting corner complete with a spacious, plush sofa adorned with an abundance of soft pillows – an ideal spot for lounging and unwinding after a day of exploring the historic town. Carpe Diem Boutique Hotel offers a blend of luxury and value, making it a standout option in Nafplio. The rooms, styled in soothing earth tones, are spacious and minimalist, providing a peaceful environment for guests to unwind. Large windows and a charming patio allow for sweeping views of both the sea and the town, creating a serene backdrop for relaxation. Guests can enjoy a fresh and satisfying breakfast, with an emphasis on local ingredients and baked goods. The hotel is family-friendly and offers easy access for all, making it a convenient choice for both couples and families. Additionally, the on-site indoor hammam adds a touch of indulgence, perfect for those looking to relax after a day of exploring Nafplio’s nearby attractions. Marianna Pension offers a serene retreat tucked into the historic old town of Nafplio, positioned just below the Akronafplia rock. The hotel’s architecture reflects its surroundings, with stone walls and wood accents creating an inviting and rustic ambiance. Guests should note that reaching the property requires a climb, but the elevated location rewards with sweeping views of Nafplio’s picturesque town, its charming port, and the iconic Palamidi. The communal patio is a perfect spot to relax and take in the scenery. The rooms, though modest in style, provide comfort for couples and families, with one large suite accommodating up to six guests. Just 300 meters from the town center, Marianna offers both seclusion and accessibility. The definition of a charming, sweet, and romantic guesthouse with uniquely decorated rooms and a warm atmosphere. The staff will welcome you and provide information on anything you need regarding the city. The rooms feature wooden floors and ceilings, a hydromassage column, works by Italian artist Francesco Moretti, and relaxing afternoons in the cozy comfort of your room. The “Elia” suite in soft green tones has white, patinated furniture, the “Deluxe Loft” is ideal for couples, while the “Irida” room is inspired by French country style. Castellano Hotel & Suites offers a refined stay in the center of Nafplio, where modern luxury meets classic elegance. The polished design features grand mirrors that stretch from floor to ceiling, creating a feeling of spaciousness and opulence. The hotel overlooks a charming plaza, putting guests in the heart of the city’s vibrant atmosphere. Rooms are outfitted with plush bedding, including the novelty of round beds in some suites, making for a memorable stay. Service is a standout here, with staff prioritizing guest comfort. The location is ideal for exploring Nafplio’s many attractions, with cafés, restaurants, and historical sites all within easy reach. Tucked away in the narrow streets of old Nafplio, behind the seafront, this listed 1850 building has been renovated into a welcoming guesthouse. The large entrance, stately staircase, dark wooden floors, leather sofas, branded toiletries, and large beds set the stage for a special stay in one of Andromeda’s five rooms. We loved the “Cepheus” room with its red tones, spacious layout, and stately decor. For particularly romantic nights, opt for the “Athena” room in the attic, where you can gaze at the illuminated sky and Acronafplia through the windows. D. Ypsilantou 13 & Kotsonopoulou 8, Old Town Kyveli Suites, nestled in the heart of Nafplio’s old town, features a striking green and terracotta exterior that harmonizes with its historical surroundings. The building’s careful restoration adheres to strict preservation rules, even foregoing the installation of an elevator to maintain its authentic character. The nine suites inside are elegantly appointed, each offering plush king-sized beds, granite bathrooms, and indulgent hydromassage tubs. Guests staying in the Blue Loft suite can enjoy a spacious balcony with panoramic views of the Palamidi fortress and the ancient Acronafplia walls, making it a favorite for those seeking privacy and scenic beauty. Aetoma Hotel, a beautifully restored 18th-century mansion, offers a stay that balances traditional elegance with modern comforts in Nafplio’s historic district. The careful renovation has preserved its architectural charm, incorporating period features with modern luxuries. The hotel’s five rooms provide an inviting mix of history and contemporary comfort, with amenities such as Jacuzzi baths or hydromassage showers and views of the ancient Acronafplia walls. The standout “Akrokeramo” room on the second floor looks out to especially stunning views of the town, providing a serene retreat in a historical setting. Guests can enjoy a leisurely breakfast of homemade jams, freshly baked pies, and desserts served daily until noon, ensuring a relaxed start to the day. Aetoma Hotel offers a refined, intimate experience for travelers seeking a connection to Nafplio’s rich history while enjoying the comforts of modern living. 3Sixty Hotel & Suites is an ideal choice for travelers looking to stay in the very heart of Nafplio’s historic district. Housed in a neoclassical building, the hotel beautifully combines contemporary comforts with the elegance of its architectural heritage. The rooms are generously sized and well-appointed, featuring refined furnishings and high-end amenities designed for relaxation. While there’s no on-site restaurant, guests can easily explore the rich culinary offerings nearby, as a variety of excellent dining options surrounds the hotel. The sophisticated interior design includes soft lighting, luxurious fabrics, and tasteful decor that creates an inviting, upscale atmosphere. Its central location makes it the perfect base for discovering Nafplio’s cafes, shops, and historical landmarks, just steps away from the hotel. Share via...Gift this articleSubscribe to gift this article Gift 5 articles to anyone you choose each month when you subscribe Petrol station king turned billionaire property magnate Nick Andrianakos has died unexpectedly in Greece aged 81 The Greek Australian businessman suffered a heart attack while at a meeting in the city of Argos and could not be revived His death was first reported by the local publication argolida24.gr and was confirmed by the family to The Australian Financial Review SaveLog in or Subscribe to save articleShareCopy link Gift 5 articles to anyone you choose each month when you subscribe. Follow the topics, people and companies that matter to you. The competent authorities granted permits for 8 hotels in the Sykeon and Pylaia areas of Thessaloniki The building department of the municipality of Central Corfu and Diapontia Islands granted a permit for a new swimming pool and outdoor bar in a hotel unit located in Corfu The building department of the municipality of Nafplio granted a permit for local repairs of coatings and external painting using scaffolding at the GRANDE BRETAGNE hotel Nafplio at the epicenter of world yachting with the 10th Mediterranean Yacht Show Samaria Gorge “War Zone” – “Others Decide, We Pay the Price” Argosaronic Islands: Need for a long-term strategy and modern infrastructure FedHATTA | Tourism Bridges between Greece and the Chinese province of Guizhou Top distinctions for Greece and Santorini at the American Leisure Lifestyle Awards 2025 HOTREC | Supporting SMEs in European Hospitality Tourism | Promoting Crete in the Arabian Gulf Aegean and Emirates expand their partnership Delta | Athens is in 5th place in American searches for 2025 Promotion of Preveza on the metro and tram in Athens TripAdvisor Awards 2025 | Elafonisi Beach World's Best Beach - 9th in Crete, Sani Beach Award 12th BAJAGREECE: Motorsports Competition in Western Macedonia Crete also invests in cycling tourism - 13th Pediadas Tour Competitions with a summer and autumn backdrop: Attica runs at the pace of sports ATM'25 - Tourism | The fight against food waste at the forefront of sustainable development easyJet holidays | Fam trips to Santorini, Skiathos and Rhodes Chania: The next actions of the “Tourism Partnership” Navarino Challenge returns on May 9-11, 2025 Cruise Takeoff in Chania – Record Arrivals in the First Quarter of 2025 Three Greek beaches among the world’s 50 best – Triumph for the Ionian The “Typhoon” that saves the Greek coasts from garbage EOT at the “Arabian Travel Market” | Interest from Gulf countries, India, and Australia CERT to manage Vasilitsa Ski Resort – Investment of over 20 million euros Is American tourism in Europe “slowing down”? What do professionals see for 2025 and 2026 This is Athens & Partners | The 7 partners renew their collaboration - the joint actions FedHATTA: Dynamic presence of Greek travel agencies at the international Dubai exhibition ATM 2025 Ryanair announces new offer for Prime members on June flights Thomas Ellerbeck | “Rhodes can become a model of sustainable tourism internationally” The Times | The perfect time to experience the authentic side of Santorini Chania: The Alternative Tourism Festival returns to the Venetian Port Angela Gerekou: "Tourism is a force for good and Greece can play a leading role" New flights to Greece in 2025 from 4 airlines Crete welcomes Reveil 12 – Festival of Sounds and Ecology Greek tourism - 3rd quarter | 97% of arrivals in Athens and Thessaloniki Modernization aid for the marinas of Symi and Messolonghi HOTREC Assembly: Focus on challenges and reforms in European tourism AEGEAN 2025: Passenger growth and fleet expansion with an eye on the international market FedHATTA Cooperation with Shaanxi Province, China Greek academic in finalists of European Sustainable Energy Awards 2025 Thessaloniki museums join forces to promote the city GNTO introduces “Sustainable Greece” to British Agents Strategic meeting for cruises in Santorini A message of friendship and cooperation at the friendly Greek-Turkish football match in Chios Municipality of Xiromero | Diving tourism: Request for sinking of a decommissioned warship The first La Quinta by Wyndham in Batumi, Georgia Double racing event in Megalopolis on May 11: Festival Enduro and Theater Run 2025 Explora Journeys: Start of the summer season with the luxurious EXPLORA I from Piraeus Strong start in 2025 for Aegean and SKY Express Xanthi Tastes: A Gastronomy Festival with a Cultural Flavor Rhodes: These are the five-star hotels with the highest revenue – Which ones “fill up” first Greek Tourism/Webhotelier: The Winners and Losers in Online Bookings for 2025 GNTO | Promotion of Santorini in target markets Unprecedented blackout in Spain, Portugal, France Greece can play a leading role in the global sports tourism scene Rhodes | Event for the protection of biodiversity Attica, the …Caribbean of the Germans Agios Nikolaos | Cruise season kicks off with arrival of luxury Silver Spirit Operational Plan: “Cretan Food Culture 2026-2030” Destination Management and Promotion Organization in Thessaloniki Kefalonia: The authentic character of the island through the “Travel Reimagined” project Hoteliers vs. Booking.com: The European uprising has begun Tourism | Greece 4th choice for Europeans' holidays in 2025 - what the ETC survey shows New high-standard heated swimming pool in Chania, aimed at sports tourism Greeks Traveled (A Lot!) in 2024 – Where They Went, How Much They Spent Greek-American Dean Spanos brings the NFL to Greece – Opportunities for promotion in the USA Lesvos: The season begins with birdwatching tourists MSC Cruises: Strengthens its presence in Greece with 6 cruise ships New Luxury Arrival in Crete | JW Marriott Crete Resort & Spa Opens on June 2 "Peloponnese Trails" inaugurated today: New network of trails for sustainable tourism Knossos: 125 years since the excavations of Arthur Evans The Spanish TV show “Viajeros Cuatro” in Corfu Wyndham - Soliteight | 40 Super 8 hotels in Spain and Portugal Airbnb: Final price now displayed in accommodation searches Investments in the beaches of the Attica Riviera The Municipality of Chania at the “From Crete to Side” Festival in Turkey Region of Central Macedonia: Tourism Promotion Activities in Poland and the Middle East Region of Crete | Connecting Minoan Palatial Centers with Archaeological Sites Biodiversity protection plan is in full swing in Elafonisi Record participation in the ATHENA International Olive Oil Competition | Chania 8 - 10 May Communities at the heart of tourism development Booking.com | No to limiting tourists, yes to infrastructure investments Thessaloniki’s dynamic presence at the World Tourism Summit in Hong Kong easyJet | Summer 2026 sales open Cruise | Turkey doubles its share, new opportunities for Greek ports Aid for the upgrade of the tourist shelter of Astakos and the Marina of Alimos Preparing the settlement of Kionia for the tourist season: An example to follow The action of the region of Crete "Let's go for... Greens" concludes this weekend “Art is our Language”: Campaign for the 70th Anniversary of the Athens Epidaurus Festival Tourism | Nostalgia drives Brits’ travel choices ΕΟΤ China | B2B meetings with Chengdu's t.os - Flights to Athens in June State-of-the-art conference center at Theartemis Palace Hotel in Rethymno Zagori: Collaboration with Impact Hub Athens for sustainable tourism and innovation Cooperation Memorandum between Development Athens and Piraeus University on Tourism Kos: New advertising campaigns with Jet2 and National Geographic Traveller UK Five cruise ships in Souda by Saturday Imbros Trail Run & Hike 2025: A sporting tribute to the History of Sfakia Cultural Days and Sea Routes in Piraeus Religious Tourism | The University of Palermo comes to Panagia Nafpaktiotissa Audio Walk in the Sitia Geopark: A Different Exploration Experience in Crete AEGEAN “takes off” Larnaca with a new direct flight to Rome Nafplio at the epicenter of world yachting with the 10th Mediterranean Yacht Show FedHATTA | Tourism Bridges between Greece and the Chinese province of Guizhou Top distinctions for Greece and Santorini at the American Leisure Lifestyle Awards 2025 Samaria Gorge “War Zone” – “Others Decide, We Pay the Price” TripAdvisor Awards 2025 | Elafonisi Beach World's Best Beach - 9th in Crete, Sani Beach Award HOTREC | Supporting SMEs in European Hospitality Argosaronic Islands: Need for a long-term strategy and modern infrastructure Tourism | Promoting Crete in the Arabian Gulf Competitions with a summer and autumn backdrop: Attica runs at the pace of sports What the Israeli Ambassador discussed at the Chania Chamber Aegean and Emirates expand their partnership North Macedonia: Increase in foreign tourists in 2024 Crete also invests in cycling tourism - 13th Pediadas Tour ATM'25 - Tourism | The fight against food waste at the forefront of sustainable development PM at 1st Greece-Saudi Arabia High-Level Strategic Cooperation Council on Monday What to expect at this year’s ITB Berlin Exhibition from March 4-6 12th BAJAGREECE: Motorsports Competition in Western Macedonia Greece's Permanent Delegation to UNESCO organizing concert on January 16 Athens to host the European Film Awards in 2027 Alonissos tops the list of Greek destinations without mass tourism Delta | Athens is in 5th place in American searches for 2025 German tourism: Advance bookings are the new "last-minute" Athens Municipality Festival 2025 | The city's biggest celebration, with more than 200 events ELSTAT: Hospitality enterprises' turnover grows 28.6% in Greece during Q1 Promotion of Preveza on the metro and tram in Athens This website is using a security service to protect itself from online attacks The action you just performed triggered the security solution There are several actions that could trigger this block including submitting a certain word or phrase You can email the site owner to let them know you were blocked Please include what you were doing when this page came up and the Cloudflare Ray ID found at the bottom of this page Please enable JS and disable any ad blocker A plan to revive an abandoned meter gauge railway line in the Peloponnese to serve not just as a historic attraction but also passenger needs has received a significant boost after Switzerland offered its help and expertise the Athens-Macedonian News Agency reported on Tuesday the idea to reactivate Europe’s longest meter gauge railway network was the subject of a meeting between the president of Hellenic Railways Organization (OSE) and Swiss Ambassador in Athens Stefan Estermann who expressed his interest in helping the plan go ahead Estermann reportedly assured Swiss support for a feasibility study that is currently under way and whose findings will be discussed at a meeting of all the involved parties in the northwestern Peloponnesian town of Nafplio in December He also said that he would reach out to relevant actors in Switzerland with experience in operating metric mountain railway systems and creating attractive programs to promote the ‘Peloponnese Railway.’ welcomed the offered assistance and underlined the importance of reviving the railway for passenger with the ultimate goal of connecting places of natural beauty and historical interest such as Corinth Grammatidis went on to brief the regional governors of Western Greece Nektarios Farmakis and the Peloponnese Dimitrios Ptochos about joint coordinated actions related to the above project The ‘Peloponnese Railway’ is part of what was the Piraeus a railway company founded in 1882 and nationalized in 1954 Kostas Karapavlos is standing in the middle of the hall The 180-year-old wooden floor creaks with every step he takes He shows us portraits and old family photos on the walls – his great-great-grandfather was Ioannis Kapodistrias first head of state of independent Greece at the 1827 Third National Assembly at Troezen and served as the governor of Greece between 1828 and 1831; his great-grandfather was a minister; his grandfather a member of Parliament; his father a mayor “Before I was elected a municipal councilor the highest office I had reached was president of the parents’ association the bourgeoisie is gradually declining,” he tells Kathimerini He lives in one of the oldest houses in Nafplio full of old furniture and the “ghosts” of relatives The house was repaired externally 25 years ago and is still holding “The other day the neighbors called me: ‘Run Kosta a shutter has loosened and is hanging!’ The funny thing is the new craftsmen do not have the knowledge of the old ones,” he says who is deputy mayor for culture in the Municipality of Nafplio is one of the few remaining descendants from the city’s old families who still live in their ancestral home taxation and the struggle with the wear and tear of time are unbearable and so does the son who is sitting on the sofa with his girlfriend and their dog: “I hope that when I die you will not turn the house into a hotel or an Airbnb,” he tells the young man He is the first Karapavlos in four generations who did not study the law.” They both burst out laughing renting out the property in the future will be almost unavoidable The architect and engineer Kostas Boudouris works at the archaeological service (and coordinated the restoration of the Castle of Bourtzi located in the middle of the town’s harbor) and inspects all the building permits in the Old Town which is protected by the Ministry of Culture I have by now entered in 95% of the town’s houses the remaining 20% has started being made into hotels or short-term rentals Buildings that were languishing due to a large number of heirs have now changed hands two or three times Such is the financial benefit that even family disagreements They didn’t want to destroy the houses and turn them into hostels But they died and their children left or moved The descendants had no inhibitions about selling the house “Thus the town is turning into a Disneyland for tourists Anyone who owns a listed building pays a lot of tax The legislation does not give incentives in the right direction because the state is also becoming a big businessman: It knows that tourism will bring it more revenue than housing,” Boudouris explains ‘The legislation does not give incentives in the right direction because the state is also becoming a big businessman: It knows that tourism will bring it more revenue than housing,’ says architect and engineer Kostas Boudouris Walking through the cobbled streets on a weekday one encounters closed shutters and crews of painters and craftsmen working tirelessly on buildings that are now being renovated They await the couples from Athens who arrive en masse on the weekends looking for suites and a romantic getaway the restorations of recent years are made with very expensive materials that will be compensated with by the increase in the price of overnight stays the Old Town will have no permanent residents at all and will only appeal to wealthy travelers This will intensify the existing divide between the new and the old city: On the one hand the modern settlement that has developed next to it where the modern market and all the services are located The “embalmed” past with the unsightly present day who had run in local elections in the past “A constant request of all municipal authorities is to remove the restrictions on land uses and to open cafes and restaurants everywhere,” he tells Kathimerini “Have they realized that this is how they will drive out the last permanent residents Who can live next to a bar or above a taverna?” “It is interesting that the person who architecturally saved the Old Town of Nafplio was not a native a woman who had a vision to preserve the historical character and wouldn’t back down She was the one who fought to keep the prisons of Akronafplia from being torn down to become a hotel Her moral stance led her to clashes with the junta and eventually to her transfer to Volos Not even the local residents liked her at the time,” he explains Is there a counterweight to the sweeping influence of tourism Nafplio has a great endowment of cultural institutions that any other city would envy: the Peloponnesian Folklore Foundation that researches and preserves modern Greek culture a branch of the National Gallery headed by an active director and even the local university that has two departments for theater studies (since 2003) and performing and digital arts (as of 2019) With the president of the latter department we visited the building under completion that will house the classrooms from 2025 It’s an old tobacco warehouse in the new town She notes how difficult it is for the 500 students to find accommodation due to the touristic character of Nafplio to the extent that some students prefer to come and go on the same day using the intercity bus from Athens Students present performances and stage works The irony is that authorities decided to build the Department of Theater Studies in Nafplio Another serious counterweight is the Center for Hellenic Studies in Greece (CHS Greece) The center’s Managing Director Christos Giannopoulos tells Kathimerini that the university had a presence in the region as early as 2002 which remains to this day and perhaps the most popular program of its kind among its students and faculty Harvard’s Center for Hellenic Studies in Washington DC was founded in 1961 with a donation from the American philanthropist Paul Mellon The initiative to create a similar one in Greece was started by Gregory Nagy an eminent professor of Classics at Harvard University specializing in Homer and Archaic Greek poetry “It was originally intended to support university activities and programs related to classical studies and Harvard summer classes,” Giannopoulos says even helps other American universities that also do programs in various scientific fields by sending their students to Greece it supports the local academic community and the local society with workshops and more People have digital access to the entire library we have in Boston through our building There is also a summer introductory social science program with Harvard students who have been taught such courses and in turn give seminars to high school students from Argolida for two and a half weeks,” he explains “It is impressive to see how the children enter this program and how they leave to excel in rhetoric and argumentation and indeed in English.” in 2008 I covered the opening of the center for Kathimerini Then there was a demonstration by locals against the university A lady revealed to me that she had taken part in that protest and now her own child finished his postgraduate research in the center’s library: “I am ashamed of the attitude we took then,” she told me The Harvard University Center for Hellenic Studies (CHS DC) is a research center founded in the early 1960s in Washington Its main purpose is to support Greek education and promote internationally the great cultural achievements of ancient Greece and particularly the humanitarian values of the Greeks and their impact over the centuries The aim of the Center’s operation has been the scientific research of the Greek civilization and the wider promotion and dissemination of its principles he started discussions on the establishment of the Center for Hellenic Studies in Greece in order to strengthen and expand the Center’s ties with scientists foundations and others operators in Greece and the rest of Europe Professor Nagy is also the one who envisioned the creation of the “twin” Center for Greek Studies in Nafplion. In June 2008 Along with the center’s affiliates, the Harvard University‘s central administration the excellent collaboration with the Municipality of Nafplio and other Greek authorities the Center for Hellenic Studies in Greece officially started operating The Director is the Professor of Ancient Greek Literature at the Democritus University of Thrace and this year the center celebrates its ten years of operation it has developed a variety of actions that appeal to the Harvard community as well as the Greek and the wider international community of scientists as well It has offered – with no financial or other burdens to the participants – a variety of educational to hundreds of Harvard students and professors as well as thousands of Greek students and the general public the Center support courses from other American Universities it collaborates with various Greek educational institutions for the development of multidisciplinary actions while on the first floor visitors can access the Digital Library (Digital Library Hall Georgios D Vernardakis) with direct access to more than 70 Harvard Electronic Libraries and Databases (digitized material The use of the Digital Library of the CHS is free and open to the public and may be the best expression of the Center’s mission has been a professor of Classical Studies and Comparative Literature at Harvard University His research interests focus on Archaic and Classical Greek poetry and literature as well as on ancient traditions and linguistics He has been awarded for his research and didactic work but also for his wider contribution to science and letters with many distinctions – including the Onassis Prize he has been an honorary member of the Academy of Athens and since 2000 he has been the Director of the Washington-based Harvard University Center for Greek Studies (CHS DC) which started operating in the early ’60s offering scholarships for Greek studies research Δdocument.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value" © 2025 ellines.com © 2025 ellines.com, all rights reserved Metropolitan Iakovos of Ireland presided over the Hierarchical Divine Liturgy at the Parish Church of Saint Anastasios in Nafplio on Palm Sunday Characteristic of the day is the priest distributing Vagia symbolizing Christ’s triumphant entry into Jerusalem the Metropolitan of Ireland distributed Corfiot palm branches The Corfiot palms are intricately woven from tender palm leaves expressed gratitude to the Metropolitan of Ireland for the honor bestowed upon them by presiding over the Divine Liturgy at the Church of Saint Anastasios he led a choir under the direction of the protopsaltis Konstantinos Routoulas you’ll want to give yourself time to take in the Venetian architecture In the traditional tavernas of this popular town servings of stuffed vine leaves and oven-baked lamb are offered up alongside local Greek music and regional wines Here are the best restaurants in Nafplio to fuel your explorations blonde-wood bistro interior and a menu that reads like a carnivore’s paradise together distinguish this restaurant from the rest Bringing a similarly modern aesthetic to his dishes the chef-owner pairs beef carpaccio with roasted hazelnuts slow-cooked octopus with white fish roe and pickles and handmade kritharoto orzo-style pasta with crayfish paired with one of the regional Peloponnese wines Sit inside or grab an outdoor table by the pier © CaféBistrot Inside the Fougaro art centre industrial-style space with bright splashes of contemporary art frequently hosts exhibitions It also serves seasonally-inspired Greek and Mediterranean dishes that make the most of ingredients from local producers from grilled talagani Greek cheese with fig chutney to vegetable-filled savoury crêpes there are occasional DJ sets or live music performances and marine-themed art adorning the rough stone walls Must-tries include “drunken” chicken (slow-cooked with red peppers and wine) and a good selection of regional cheeses Desserts – from walnut pie to filo pastry baked with feta and honey – are equally hearty © Pidalio Mezedopoleio Overlooking Nafplio’s largest green space in the New Town this cosy taverna specialises in plates that are best shared many of this mezze restaurant’s best offerings such as the tender grilled octopus on aubergine purée though meaty Cretan influences creep in as well The wine list is extensive and big on Greek labels © I Folia Make a note of this taverna’s name in Greek characters (Η ΦΩΛΙΑ) in order to find it along Nafplio’s waterfront since there are only 10 tables within the cosy Fresh fish and seafood is supplied daily by their fisher friends so you might be treated to cheese-stuffed squid with honey sauce or oven-baked lamb with lemon © Espero Fine Taste Whether you dine beneath the vertical gardens and contemporary chandeliers of the airy interior your meal is bound to be a memorable one at Espero The menu is a mix of old-school Greek favourites such as octopus with caramelised onions and fava beans including handmade pastas with unusual ingredient pairings and finish off with a chocolate soufflé and hand-picked selection of international wines With an emphasis on seasonal dishes made from the freshest this family-run spot serves the likes of lamb with artichokes and stuffed vine leaves with lemon sauce in summer while octopus in wine sauce appears on the menu year-round Ample portions are served with aplomb to the tune of traditional Greek music Bear in mind that this restaurant doesn’t take reservations fireplace-warmed taverna at the foot of Palamidi Hill is like stepping back in time Run by three generations of the Koutelias family this venerable place is as traditional as they come with specialities such as home-made sausages roasted on the spit The slow-cooked lamb in lemon sauce is equally satisfying you get offered a free dessert by the convivial owners at the end of the meal © Clairy Moustafellou / Alamy Stock Photo As welcoming as its flower-adorned fence inscribed with greetings in multiple languages this friendly cafe is run by several indefatigable ladies and the traditional Greek options are the ones to go for You can’t go wrong with home-made bread and a selection of jams Greece, renowned for its ancient history, sprawling islands, and exquisite cuisine, is also home to many picturesque small towns that often get overshadowed by the glitz and glamour of its more famous cities. These hidden gems, away from the tourist crowds, offer travelers a unique glimpse into the heart and soul of Greek culture Explore eight of the most gorgeous small towns in Greece Whether you're an avid traveler or just an armchair explorer these destinations are sure to captivate your imagination Originally the first capital of Greece until 1834, Nafplio is a harbor town in the eastern part of the Peloponnese and historic fortresses exude an old-world charm that draws visitors in offers panoramic views of the town and the surrounding bay the 999 steps to the top of the Palamidi Castle offer an unparalleled vantage point Often referred to as the "Gibraltar of the East," Monemvasia is a medieval fortress town on a small island off the southeastern coast of the Peloponnese The town is famous for its stone-built houses Connected to the mainland by a causeway, this hidden gem is perfect for history buffs and those seeking serenity. The car-free streets, the aroma of fresh bread and olives in the air, and the mesmerizing views of the Aegean Sea make Monemvasia a dream destination a picturesque coastal town on the northern shores of the Gulf of Corinth in Greece offers a delightful blend of maritime heritage and timeless charm its history is clear in the meticulously preserved neoclassical mansions and the notable Maritime Museum The town's narrow cobblestone streets lead to quaint squares where locals and visitors alike can savor traditional Greek delicacies in cozy tavernas Galaxidi boasts an ambiance of tranquility making it a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle the majestic Parnassus National Park beckons nature enthusiasts with its rich flora and fauna Situated on the northwestern coast of Greece, Parga is a picturesque haven. Its vibrant, colorful houses, reminiscent of a painter's palette, cascade gracefully down the hillside, meeting the azure waters of the Ionian Sea the ancient Venetian castle stands sentinel serving as perfect retreats for relaxation seekers dotted with myriad restaurants and lively bars ensures Parga pulses with energy from dawn till dusk Tucked away from the well-trodden paths of its famed Cycladic counterparts Folegandros is a hidden gem that has eluded the clutches of commercial tourism The heartbeat of this serene island is its main town flanked by immaculately whitewashed houses come alive with the vibrant hues of blossoming bougainvillea boasts traditional tavernas where you can savor delectable seafood and age-old local recipes mesmerizes visitors with its architectural beauty and unparalleled vistas of the shimmering Aegean Koroni sits gracefully on the southern tip of the Peloponnese and its setting can rival any coastal town in Greece with panoramic vistas of the Messenian Gulf bears silent witness to a storied past that has its roots in the Byzantine epoch The town's first greeting is the grandeur of the Venetian castle one is enchanted by the winding alleys decorated with vibrant bougainvillea guiding visitors to quaint squares where time slows and locals revel in leisurely kafedaki (coffee) sessions with their crystalline turquoise waters and golden stretches Located in the northern part of the island of Lesbos Mithymna is often considered the island's gem Its terracotta-roofed houses are built amphitheatrically on a hill leading up to a majestic medieval castle filled with artisan shops and local taverns exude a unique atmosphere reminiscent of times gone by with fishing boats docked alongside trendy cafes The town's backdrop of dense forests and the azure Aegean Sea in front creates a landscape that's nothing short of spectacular Mithymna also serves as a perfect base to explore the Petrified Forest of Lesvos Located on the southwestern coast of the Peloponnese Pylos is a harborside gem overlooking the Ionian Sea The dominating Niokastro castle is a testament to its strategic significance over the centuries Pylos' central square is a vibrant gathering spot buzzing with cafes where locals enjoy their tsipouro (un-aged brandy) and mezedes (food) a natural habitat for various bird species further accentuates Pylos' blend of history and nature making it a must-visit for any Greek odyssey Greece is much more than its iconic blue domes and sun-soaked beaches These small towns offer a side of Greece that's intimate photos and original descriptions © 2025 worldatlas.com A flock of flamingo birds rest at the Nea Kios coastal wetland near the port of Nafplio in the Peloponnese on Saturday aimed at highlighting the need to protect migratory birds is celebrated on the second Saturday of May a Venetian castle situated in the middle of Nafplio’s harbor in the Peloponnese will reopen to the public starting this Saturday the Culture Ministry and the Hellenic Public Properties Company (ETAD) revealed that the monument has undergone extensive restoration and maintenance These efforts have made it accessible to persons with disabilities while preserving all the authentic parts of the fortress Visitors can explore the fortress every day from Monday to Sunday the price for the tickets has not been disclosed yet The fortress of Bourtzi was initially designed by Antonio Gambello The construction was completed by the engineer Brancaleone it served as a small castle where an executioner lived The clock read 8:20 a.m. and I groggily came to the realization that I had overslept and missed the first group hike on the very first day of my stay at the Euphoria Retreat a hotel and “unique healing environment.” This wasn’t just any hike; it was a trek to the best-preserved example of a medieval walled town in Greece in one of the country’s most gorgeous regions Before I arrived at the health-focused hotel in the mountainous town of Mystras I had resolved that I would be a participant in each of Euphoria’s robust slate of health-centric activities I threw on some clothes and ran to reception I don’t think you’d be able to catch up,” the kind clerk said as she examined the unsightly pillow lines fanning across my face I smiled, took a map, and started following the directions for a self-guided walk to a church she suggested as an alternative. I reminded myself that one missed group hike would not ruin my trip. I would return to the medieval mountain-side town solo. Besides, I was in a part of Greece I had longed to visit for years: the Peloponnese I devoured details about how this peninsula which is due south of Athens and dangles from the mainland by an isthmus Tourists swarm upon Mykonos and Santorini like yellow jackets on baklava One thing you will not find are fleets of cruise ships I’m not one to drop accolades or compliments easily But I was so smitten with the peninsula that I came within a keystroke of adding several days to my trip I was on Delta’s website about to hit “enter” to change my flight a guilt trip coming from my husband back in Boston When you plan your trip to the Peloponnese don’t believe what you read in the travel guides This is not a weekend jaunt from Athens or even a four-day side trip don’t let your husband make you feel guilty if you decide to stay longer Getting to the Peloponnese is relatively easy once you land in Athens I rented a car at the airport and drove on a very efficient and pristine highway system It took about an hour to reach the top of the peninsula which begins at the man-made Corinth Canal (connecting the Ionian Sea with the Aegean Sea) I drove another two hours to the my hotel in Mystras the tiny village best known for the well-preserved Byzantine city that was built on the very steep slopes of the Taygetus Mountains You know that annoying expression “Pictures don’t do it justice” I decided I would use the Euphoria Retreat as a base camp I’d do healthy things every morning and then spend afternoons and evenings exploring other towns and attractions My plan was terribly shortsighted (if I only had a drachma for every time I wrote those words) I didn’t want to leave the soothing environs of Euphoria and its delicious spa I booked treatments such as a session to quiet “busy minds” and halotherapy which entailed sitting in a warm room while breathing air filled with tiny salt particles Its purpose was to clear maladies such as asthma and bronchitis I told him in my usual tactful and polite manner that I didn’t like massages There was no way I could properly report this story without a second massage I had underestimated the amount of time I needed to see other parts of the Peloponnese The pace of life here is not conducive to running from town to town or grabbing quick meals which is easy to forget when you’re sitting back in the States compiling lists and schedules I hesitantly pulled myself out of the infinity pool told Christos there would be no more massages The most important stop in Mystras is the Fortress of Villehardouin (also called the Mystras Castle) and its accompanying city on the mountain The city below it was conquered and passed around among medieval superpowers for another 400 years until the Greeks gave up and deserted it in the early-19th century Now it’s a pristinely preserved archeological site It is a stunning slice of history, particularly the Monastery of Pantanassa although I saw more cats than nuns as I trudged from one level of the mountainside city to the next The frescos in the monastery are all museum-worthy Guests trickled in and lit candles as the sun streamed through the windows of a dome above A quick word about hiking up the archeological city and the fortress in Mystras: I would only recommend a full visit for those who are sure-footed and in moderately decent health It seems that William II of Villehardouin was not interested in installing handrails or ramps in the 13th century 1,000 years of foot traffic has made many of the steps on the uneven stairs quite smooth it’s just something to keep in mind before you climb 1,000 feet up the hill You can also easily see parts of the city and the fortress from various vantage points around town I split my Mystras mountain archeological exploits into two parts both in the late afternoon when the sun was lower in the sky and the tour buses had disappeared I spent a bit too much time visiting the cats that loitered around the archeological sites supplying them with treats and giving them proper and a vociferous kitten who I dubbed Zorba the Squeak After a few days focused on Mystras’s ruins and cats I found myself in a true Peloponnesian predicament I had to start making some hard decisions and start cutting locations that I knew I wouldn’t have time to visit I blame Zorba the Squeak for being so cute my first stop was the highly recommended Limeni which is a small port in the town of Areopoli The Peloponnese peninsula has three “fingers” at the southern tip and these are where you’ll find some of the most scenic beaches I held on for dear life and drove my tiny rental on narrow zig-zagging roads down precarious hills to Limeni There are a few cafes that sit directly on the harbor and stared in disbelief at the beauty of it all but I chatted with a couple who were spending a week beach-hopping here My brain immediately began working on the logistics of my next trip I drove back up the hill to the main town of Areopoli Narrow streets were lined with restaurants and taverns with the mountains looming in the distance which is located in the northwest corner of the peninsula I felt obligated to come here because it’s where the Olympics were held from the eighth century BC to the fourth century AD Olympia features the remains of ancient temples I found the contents of the museum more interesting than the remaining columns and stone outlines of long-gone temples and buildings first download the Ancient Olympia app on your phone which uses your location to show you what the ruins in front of you would have looked like more than 2,000 years ago Driving up the west coast of the peninsula I noticed signs for beaches almost every 5 miles and I pulled off the small highway several times to investigate tiny towns with several vans and RVs parked near the beach There are no strict rules here about camping I found the Peloponnese to be less expensive than the islands and I imagine renting a van and camping along the beach would be incredibly economical I saved what I hoped would be the best for last Back on the eastern side of the peninsula is the seaside city of Nafplio This was another location where I quickly realized I needed more time I was here for two nights and could have used at least two more I met a pair of very inebriated Australian women who were spending six weeks (!) on the peninsula and decided they liked Nafplio so much they were spending two weeks there Think of Nafplio as a Greek greatest hits album There is history (more archeological sites and fortesses) I slathered myself in sunblock and walked up the 999 steps to the top of the Fortress of Palamidi Let me just point out that the Greeks invented democracy but did not think of installing handrails along the 999 stairs at Palamidi you can hire a cab to take you around the hill and park at the top The other fortress in Nafplio is much more accessible. It sits in the harbor and you can see it from a jetty off the main boulevard. I parked myself at the end of the jetty one evening at sunset to watch the sky change around the Bourtzi Fortress I knew I should be exploring the narrow streets or responding to e-mails but instead I sat transfixed as the sky turned from blue to pink to lavender The next morning I would run around Nafplio and explore some more but on this particular evening I decided I would let the peninsula tell me what to do petted a cat that came up to sit alongside me (leaving a trail of treats down the jetty helped lure a few cats) and had the best meditation session of the week The relaxation helped clear my brain and relax Christopher Muther can be reached at christopher.muther@globe.com. Follow him @Chris_Muther and Instagram @chris_muther. Home Delivery Gift Subscriptions Log In Manage My Account Customer Service Delivery Issues Feedback News Tips Help & FAQs Staff List Advertise Newsletters View the ePaper Order Back Issues News in Education Search the Archives Privacy Policy Terms of Service Terms of Purchase Work at Boston Globe Media Internship Program Co-op Program Do Not Sell My Personal Information Nafplio is scenically located on the water of the mainland Peloponnese peninsula beneath the lofty Palamidi Fortress – one of three fortifications in the seaport town The grid of centuries-old streets that makes up Nafplio Old Town is lined with handsome neoclassical mansions Also a popular weekend destination for Athenians Pull up with us for a serving of Nafplio’s best © Kontrabasso With terrace furniture hammered out of old crates a grungy interior and bottles dangling from the rafters Kontrabasso is a favourite post-climb stop for those who’ve done the precipitous climb to the Palamidi Fortress and back down Besides the frosty Zeus brews and other regional beers the non-alcoholic drinks here are as good as the booze with the fresh-mint-and-ginger lemonade particularly standing out Courtesy of Alkioni Wine Bar / Expedia.com With rough stone walls and hundreds of wine glasses hanging from the ceiling this bar looks every inch the wine aficionado’s heaven it is Perch on a stool at one of the barrel tables and have the sommelier recommend a variety of Greek wines to try covering all of the main wine regions in Greece Local cheeses and sharing platters are paired with appropriate tipples and extensive wine tastings can be arranged © Mediterraneo Wine Bar & Deli True to its name with a centuries-old original stone arch peeking through cold cuts and other ingredients from all over the Mediterranean Around 90 percent come from all over Greece (Santorini and sommeliers Dimitris and Katerina are happy to suggest snacks define this upscale grill restaurant that forms part of Nafplio’s boutique hotel of the same name and the menu showcases a respectable range of Greek glasses Bow-tied waiters are happy to mix you classic cocktails as well One for a romantic date – until the DJs take over © Clairy Moustafellou / Alamy Stock Photo Ideally located for people-watching on a pedestrian drag in the Old Town this is one of those great all-rounder all-day cafe bars that are perpetually busy with a mixed crowd of locals and international visitors so be prepared to stand while sipping your pornstar martini (vanilla vodka vanilla syrup and sparkling wine) or a pink and bloody (rose port © Blublanc As the only true beach bar in Nafplio Blublanc sits on the pebbly Arvanitias Beach daiquiri-fuelled day beneath the thatched umbrellas or a spot of sunset-watching – peach bellini or cosmopolitan in hand – you’re likely to rub shoulders with weekending Athenians here Blublanc serves good breakfasts and light bites as well from sandwiches to salads and grilled fish © Clairy Moustafellou / Alamy Stock Photo A real-life mavros gatos (black cat) oversees the proceedings at this locally renowned cafe bar in the heart of the Old Town join the locals on the small outdoor terrace for a Greek coffee and breakfast or head inside the traditional stone house decked out with vintage posters for a Greek craft beer a cocktail and some live music in the evenings Performances range from local rock bands to occasional DJ sets With its rough-hewn stone walls and whimsical paintings of dogs dressed as dandies and counts this cheerful cafe/wine bar/bistro is open all day Owner Giorgos Bounos knows his grapes and gives you the opportunity to sample hand-picked wines from all over the Peloponnese and Northern Greece along with nibbles: mainly regional cheeses and sausages Tuesday nights are dedicated to Greek contemporary music Greece is once again the hottest holiday destination in the Mediterranean after a decade of sailing through stormy economic waters Risa Merl reviews the best hotels and restaurants in the Greek islands to visit by superyacht while exploring on board 35.5-metre Celia one such picturesque town that is overlooked by a commanding fort on the hillside famed for its 999 steps (so local legend has it – in fact it’s 857) to reach the summit Nafplio’s quintessentially pretty Old Town is defined by colourful buildings dripping in greenery and floral blooms pedestrianised streets are dotted with outdoor cafés where the Greek Yachting Association hosts the annual Mediterranean Yacht Show but many more clients fled the scene until things settled down Heading out to explore what’s attracting this investment from Nafplio we cruise towards Spetses and anchor in the stunning Korakia Bay off the Greek mainland The anchorage is in the eyeline of Amanzoe’s minimalist but chic beach club and the Acropolis-inspired resort is perched on the hilltops high above The sheltered stop-off means guests can easily head to shore for some pampering in its cavernous spa or to dine on washoku (Japanese) cuisine at its Nama restaurant Amanzoe can also arrange for one its famed Aman spa treatments on board The yachts’ captains use the quiet bay to moor our three yachts so they are tied together side-by-side allowing guests to step over the bulwarks from one boat to the next I have seen my fair share of raft-up parties so it is impressive to see three 30-metre-plus boats joined together with a stern line tied to rocks on the shoreline the ideal distance to get in a bit of a workout before lunch on the aft deck “This is the difference with Greek captains,” explains Popy Kaia charter director of Atalanta Golden Yachts “They know the secrets of where to go and how to tie up to shore – they aren’t afraid to get in close so you don’t have to be anchored far out and tender in.” but what’s wonderful is the nature – it is unspoiled and you don’t have the strong winds of the Aegean but you always have a nice breeze in the afternoon to cool things down.” Captain Grammatikos agrees that this area is less formal than other yachting hotspots “It would be unfair to compare it to Monaco if you’re speaking about the French Riviera or maybe even the Hamptons in America,” he explains we pass a bounty of gorgeous mainland villas stretching from the hilltops to the seaside which is car-free save for a handful of taxis at dusk and are greeted by two horse-drawn carriages Once ashore we are whisked along the winding harbour path to the Poseidon Grand Hotel as the sun dips below the horizon like strokes of an impressionist painting brought to life which is housed in a 200-year-old building decorated with pieces from sailing boats – such as a chandelier over the bar made from a bowsprit – and has been run by the owner’s family for four decades The captain of Celia’s favourite place to send guests for a meal onshore is Tarsanas which is renowned for its simple but sublime fresh seafood dishes and water views “It’s always good to combine this area with the Cyclades and you can duck in here when the weather isn’t as good or the winds are too strong,” he says the water never gets too rough and you can always find a place to anchor.” June and September are his favourite times to cruise in Greece “You could even enjoy this area and the Cyclades well into October,” he says “The water is warmed from the summer and the days are still perfect You just might need a layer as it starts to get chilly in the evening.” the idyllic island that is entirely free of motor vehicles The harbour is ringed by hills that are covered in houses the cafés that line the harbour and the streets that snake up towards the hills surrounding it are quiet While it’s true that Greece is gaining in popularity by travelling here out of peak season – so May or September to October – you’d hardly know it for the sense of solitude that abounds We climb up the hill that leads to the famed lookout point where sunset admirers bask in the glow of the setting sun diving and cavorting in orange light that the lingering sun is casting on the water Greece seems to be filled with a renewed energy that is enchanting for those who sail here But this emerald and turquoise corner of the Aegean certainly hasn’t lost any of its quiet charm Celia is managed for charter by Atalanta Golden Yachts and her weekly charter rate starts from €65,000 per week. atalantagoldenyachts.com SubscribeSign up to our newslettersSign up to BOAT International email newsletters to get the latest superyacht news Boat International Media Ltd © 2008 - 2025 Content presented under the "BOAT Presents" logo is an advertising feature and Boat International Limited has been paid to include this content A cozy and fun Swing Dance Weekend in picturesque Nafplion is being organized by the Fougaro Art Center (fougaro.gr) this February The three-day winter getaway will be full of learning dancing and exploring in one of Greece’s most “vintage” cities Register at swingblenderweekend.wixsite.com Experiences making Greece's former capital a timelessly beloved destination in northeastern Peloponnese’s Argolida region especially as the weather warms up and the spring light highlights the colours of the locale The town’s pink and yellowish listed neoclassical buildings purplish red bougainvilleas climbing up buildings with blue-coloured window frames the sea’s blue surrounding the Venetian water castle of Bourtzi and the vibrant green colour of prickly pears covering the Acronauplia all contribute to this city’s overall charm is one of Greece’s most impressive cities including Venetian and Ottoman-era attractions scattered along narrow alleys This picturesque destination and its surrounding natural environment attract visitors from all over the world No matter how many times one may have visited this place there are always new things and dimensions to discover monuments and commemorative plaques at buildings reminding of the city’s glorious past It stretches back to the Mycenaean period and includes a succession of occupations by the Franks Nafplio became the next capital of independent Greece Begin your historical exploration of the city with monuments dedicated to Greek Revolution heroes of 1821 to be seen from one end of Nafplio to the other Look for the statue of the fighter Staikos Staikopoulos – the famous conqueror of Palamidi the fortress to the east of the Acronauplia and liberator of Nafplio – on 25th Martiou Avenue Take a leisurely stroll to the Staikopoulos park and if you happen to be in Nafplio on November 29 inspect the monument created in honour of Nikitaras the military chief celebrated for his fighting prowess Also check the statue of Ioannis Kapodistrias and then head on for Trion Navarhon Square to see the burial monument of General Dimitrios Ypsilantis The governor house and residence of Kapodistrias once stood at this square but no traces have survived as a result of a devastating fire look for a marble plaque marking the house resided by Mando Mavrogenous a heroine of the Greek War of Independence while a walk along the uphill alleys leading to Konstantinoupoleos Street reaches another commemorative plaque at a listed building reminding of its rich three-chapter history It served as the executive building of the Kapodistrias administration; the residence of Ottoman military officer Aga Pasha; and was the home of the governor-general of the Peloponnese The route of commemorative plaques leads to Agios Spiridonas church outside of which Kapodistrias was assassinated by rivals Konstantinos and Georgios Mavromichalis a painting depicts the wounded Kapodistrias as he falls To end your brief historical journey of Nafplio definitely go by Staikopoulou Street to marvel at modern Greece’s first Parliament building housed at the Aga Pasha mosque following architectural revisions Cultural events and exhibitions are nowadays often staged at this building providing visitors the opportunity to also view the interior It features a large circular hall with arches and an imposing blue dome There is always something new to discover at Nafplio’s old town no matter how many time you explore the gorgeous alleys are filled with flowering climbing plants as well as lemon trees filled with lemons Focus on themes and details that interest you most and which you may have missed on previous visits such as traditional and neoclassical houses all beautifully coloured; the uphill steps leading to roads with magnificent views; the superb balconies with carved railings; fascinating doors brightly coloured; even their elaborate handles is the perfect place to begin your exploration of the city’s historic churches as attending church was forbidden for Christian subjects handed back Agia Sophia church to the Christians and permitted services a small chapel wedged at the foothills of Acronauplia This church was first officially referenced in 1571 when its impression appeared on a copperplate with the title “Santa Maria di Grotte” teaching the Greek language and Christian doctrine the 15th century Church of the Virgin Mary is dedicated to Nafplio’s patron saint is the city’s most impressive church This triple-aisled basilica’s simple exterior does not feature a dome Observe its intricate details and then head up to the women’s section of the church for a panoramic was assassinated – is situated at a location where a church built by the Venetians once stood but was eventually completely destroyed its octagonal dome a distinctive feature from above covers a mark left by one of the bullets that had been intended for the governor Nafplio’s old town is filled with shopping opportunities for products of exceptional quality Shops are run by people who lovingly create or stock various beautiful items top-quality cotton is used to make special t-shirts as well as canvas bags of all sizes All products made here are limited and numbered The shop also hosts a small exhibition space covering the textile history of the region Gonidou also uses top-quality cotton and pure silk to create wonderful shawls and scarves in wonderful colours original decorative items inspired by the museum collection The Komboloi (worry bead) Museum shop sells top-quality worry beads and also offers repair services operating a small production facility for handmade soap at the back will definitely attract your attention with its pleasant aromas Step inside and shop for yourself and loved ones also with a production facility at the back has catered to the cravings of locals and visitors over the past twenty or so years Products sold here include amygdalota (almond cookies) a grocery store stocked with carefully selected delicatessen products made by Greek producers stocks cheese varieties produced by his family alongside handmade pastas marmalades and other delicacies from all over Greece Begin with the imposing Archaeological Museum at the western flank of Syntagma Square for insight into civilisations that flourished in the Argolida region from the early prehistoric period to late antiquity gold jewellery as well as items of worship all exhibited over two floors at the museum’s impressive 18th century Venetian building take visitors back to the region’s Mycenaean cities Well preserved armour from the 15th century BC The War Museum showcases an exceptional collection including items associated with Argolida’s contribution to the Greek War of Independence primarily between Greek and Bulgarian subjects in the Ottoman-ruled Macedonia region between 1904 and 1908; the Balkan Wars of 1912 and 1913; as well as the two World Wars and Greece’s liberation including a rich collection of photographs The atmosphere is far lighter at Nafplio’s Folklore Museum hosting a superb collection of costumes from the Peloponnese and various parts of Greece as well as other traditional items divided into five thematic entities and an important part of religious practices in many countries is covered at the Komboloi (worry bead) Museum A collection of rare string beads collected during travels to various parts of the world by the museum’s founders They include Buddhist and Hindu string beads used for prayer as well as Greek komboloi pieces made with amber A komboloi that belonged to mid-20th century Greek prime minister Konstantinos Tsaldaris is one of the special pieces on show Nafplio’s old town is filled with tempting culinary stops for all times of day including a superb apple and carrot variety Antica Gelateria di Roma offers refreshment with authentic gelato or sorbet in a wide range of superb Italian flavours Good ice cream as well as puddings are available at the Retro dairy shop an aromatic Anatolian pudding made with fresh milk an exceptional spot for wine-tasting amid a stylish setting accompanied by quality cheese and charcuterie platters housed at a superbly renovated neoclassical building also hosting the venture’s synonymous restaurant and boutique hotel from the centre of the old town and around the Acronauplia rock is a favourite route taken by most visitors you may want to board one of the boats for a ride around the much-photographed 15th century Venetian water castle of Bourtzi as well as to the rock hosting remnants of Nafplio’s ancient acropolis Besides offering close-up views of the water castle these boat rides also offer a panoramic view of Nafplio and the perfectly preserved 18th century Palamidi 5 destinations with good food for a daytrip near Athens Excursion to Elefsina Piraeus-Sounion by sailboat, a captivating Attica trip The Peloponnese town of Nafplio has suffered from water scarcity in recent years This project aims to tackle the problem by upgrading the internal water supply network of the city of Nafplio and the surrounding residential areas of Karathona and Exosti and fact and data sheets were approved in October 2011 and the inclusion decision was issued in November 2011 The legal commitment with the contractor was signed in June 2012 and the works are now in progress work will be completed by the end of June 2014 A total of 36.39 km of new pipelines are expected to be laid old pipelines replaced and two metal water tanks installed to help secure the drinking water supply and reduce water losses The modernisation of the water supply network is expected to improve residents’ quality of life and boost local business competitiveness It is part of the overall aim to increase the attractiveness of the Peloponnese region for both inhabitants and tourists by establishing a rational and efficient management system of natural resources The project is one of 181 EU co-funded priority projects identified by the Greek authorities and the European Commission in 2011 which are of high quality and have the potential to create economic growth and new jobs in regions throughout the country The completion of the water supply network will improve the well-being of the region’s population as well as help promote their cultural heritage and entrepreneurial activity It is just one of a series of projects which have helped improve drinking water and sewage networks across Greece in the last five years All of these projects have been co-financed by the EU’s Cohesion Fund The Nafplio project is also expected to generate 47.5 labour-years of employment during its implementation and 2 labour-years of employment during its functional period Total investment for the project “Completion of the water supply network in Nafplio” is EUR 3 500 000 with the EU’s European Regional Development Fund contributing EUR 2 975 000 through the “Western Greece - Peloponnesus - Ionian Islands” Operational Programme for the 2007-2013 programming period ΕΙΔΙΚΗ ΥΠΗΡΕΣΙΑ ΣΥΝΤΟΝΙΣΜΟΥ ΤΗΣ ΕΦΑΡΜΟΓΗΣ ΤΩΝ ΕΠΙΧΕΙΡΗΣΙΑΚΩΝ ΠΡΟΓΡΑΜΜΑΤΩΝ Municipal Enterprise for Water and Sewage of Nafplio