Exploring the Historical Charms of Nafplio, Greece

Stepping Back in Time in Corinth

Today, Isabella and I embarked on a journey that felt like stepping directly into the pages of a history book. Leaving the familiar charm of Nafplio behind for a day, we ventured to Ancient Corinth, a city that once rivaled Athens in power and influence. The crisp January air added a certain gravitas to the experience, as if the very stones were whispering tales of millennia past.

Our day began, as most good days do, with a hearty breakfast at The Corner of Kavalaris. This cozy spot, nestled in Nafplio’s old town, was the perfect place to fuel up for our historical adventure. I went with the grilled feta cheese, while Isabella chose the homemade meat dish. The small plates were delicious, and the atmosphere was cozy, making it a delightful start to our day. I made a mental note to try to recreate the feta at home, maybe adding a touch of maple syrup as a nod to my Canadian life. After breakfast, we hopped in our rental car and set off towards Corinth.


Discover authentic Greek flavors at The Corner of Kavalaris in Nafplio, where small plates meet Mediterranean charm.
The drive itself was scenic, winding through the Peloponnesian landscape. As we approached Ancient Corinth, the imposing Acrocorinth loomed in the distance, a stark reminder of the city's strategic importance throughout history.


Discover Acrocorinth, a historic fortress in Corinth, Greece, offering stunning views and a deep dive into ancient civilization.

Delving into the Archaeological Museum of Ancient Corinth

Our first stop was the Archaeological Museum of Ancient Corinth. This museum is a treasure trove of artifacts, offering a comprehensive look at Corinth's rich past, from prehistoric times to the Roman era. As we walked through the exhibits, I was struck by the sheer volume of history contained within those walls. From everyday pottery to elaborate sculptures, each piece told a story of daily life, religious practices, and artistic achievements.


Explore the Archaeological Museum of Ancient Corinth, where history comes alive through remarkable artifacts from one of Greece's most significant ancient cities.
Isabella, with her librarian's eye for detail, was particularly fascinated by the inscriptions and the way they illuminated the social and political structures of the time. I found myself drawn to the Roman mosaics, imagining the opulent villas they once adorned. The museum is well-organized, guiding visitors through different historical periods and offering a comprehensive narrative of Corinth's evolution.

History is a relentless master. It has no present, only the past reaching out to shape our future.

One of the highlights was the exhibit on the Asklepieion, the healing sanctuary. The collection of clay offerings shaped as human body parts was particularly striking, a testament to the hopes and fears of those seeking healing in ancient times. It was a poignant reminder of our shared humanity, transcending the centuries.

Conquering Acrocorinth

After immersing ourselves in the museum, we were ready to tackle the Acrocorinth. This monolithic rock, rising dramatically above the ancient city, is one of the most impressive acropoleis in Greece. The climb to the top was challenging, but the panoramic views were more than worth the effort. From the summit, we could see the Corinthian and Saronic Gulfs, the plains of Argos, and the distant mountains. It was easy to understand why this location was so strategically important throughout history.

The Acrocorinth has been continuously occupied from archaic times to the early 19th century, serving as a fortress for the Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, Franks, Venetians, and Ottoman Turks. Each civilization left its mark on the fortifications, creating a fascinating blend of architectural styles. As we explored the ruins, we imagined the soldiers who once stood guard here, defending their city from invaders. The sense of history was palpable, almost overwhelming.

Isabella was particularly intrigued by the Temple of Aphrodite, which once stood on the highest peak. According to legend, the temple was served by over a thousand sacred prostitutes, contributing to Corinth's reputation for luxury and decadence. While the temple is now in ruins, it's easy to imagine the vibrant ceremonies that once took place here.

We spent a good couple of hours exploring the Acrocorinth, soaking in the history and the stunning views. As the sun began to dip towards the horizon, we made our way back down, our legs tired but our spirits soaring.

A Taste of Italy in Corinth

By the time we returned to Corinth, we were both ravenously hungry. We decided to try La Piccola Italia for lunch. I know, I know, Italian food in Greece? But we had heard good things about this place, and we were in the mood for something other than Greek cuisine. It turned out to be a great choice. The pasta was perfectly cooked, and the sauces were rich and flavorful. It was a welcome change of pace, and a reminder that even in the heart of Greece, you can find culinary surprises.


Experience authentic Italian cuisine in Nafplio at La Piccola Italia - where every dish tells a story.

Shopping for Souvenirs

Before heading back to Nafplio, we stopped by Ethimo Nafplio, a local shop, to pick up a few souvenirs. I found a beautiful hand-painted ceramic plate, while Isabella chose a set of postcards featuring scenes of Nafplio. It's always nice to bring back a little piece of the places we visit, to remind us of our adventures long after we've returned home.


Explore Ethimo Nafplio, your ultimate destination for organic health foods and local delicacies in the heart of Nafplio, Greece.

Dinner with a View

Back in Nafplio, we had dinner at Alaloum restaurant. This place is known for its delicious Greek cuisine and breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea. We started with a selection of mezze, including tzatziki, dolmades, and spanakopita. For our main courses, I chose the seafood and Isabella had the moussaka. Everything was delicious, and the service was excellent. As we ate, we watched the sunset over the sea, painting the sky in hues of orange, pink, and purple. It was the perfect end to a perfect day.


Experience authentic Greek cuisine at Alaloum Restaurant in Nafplio – where tradition meets flavor in a cozy setting.

Reflections on the Day

As I sit here now, writing this blog post in our cozy hotel room at Amymone and Adiandi, I can't help but feel a sense of awe at the history we experienced today. Ancient Corinth is a place that truly transports you back in time, allowing you to connect with the people and events that shaped our world. It's a reminder that even though civilizations rise and fall, the human spirit endures.


Discover comfort and charm at Amymone and Adiandi, a welcoming retreat in Nafplio just steps from the beach and vibrant local culture.
Tomorrow, we're planning to explore the Isthmus of Corinth and the Parko kykloforiakis agogis. I'm excited to see the Corinth Canal, a marvel of engineering that has connected the Aegean and Ionian Seas for over a century. And who knows what other hidden gems we'll discover along the way? I'll be sure to share all our adventures with you here on the blog. Until then, keep exploring!

I am also thinking that I should have packed my sunglasses, but I am sure I can pick up a pair at a local shop. Now, off to dream of ancient gods and goddesses!

Oh, and Isabella says goodnight!