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Church of Panagia: A Historic Gem in Nafplio

Discover the Church of Panagia in Nafplio: a historic 15th-century church with stunning architecture and a serene atmosphere.

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The Church of Panagia, dedicated to the Presentation of the Virgin Mary, is one of Nafplio's oldest and most beautiful churches. Dating back to the 15th century, it showcases a rich history and stunning architecture, evolving into a three-aisled basilica around 1700.

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Local tips

  • Visit during the Good Friday procession to witness a deeply moving religious tradition.
  • Take a moment to admire the intricate wood-carved iconostasis and the Eptanisian-style chancel inside the church.
  • Look for the historic olive tree on the north side of the church, associated with the martyrdom of Saint Anastasios.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Church of Panagia is located in the heart of Nafplio's Old Town, behind the Archaeological Museum. From Syntagma Square, walk north towards the museum; the church is easily found nestled between the cafes and shops. There are no specific costs involved in reaching the church on foot.

  • Public Transport

    Local buses in Nafplio serve the city center. From the main bus station, it's a short walk to the Old Town and the Church of Panagia. A single bus fare within the city costs approximately €1.20.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Nafplio. A short taxi ride from the port or the bus station to the Church of Panagia in the Old Town will typically cost between €5 and €7. Taxi fares start at €3.50, with a per-kilometer rate of €0.70.

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Discover more about Church of Panagia

The Church of Panagia, nestled in the heart of Nafplio, stands as a testament to the city's rich religious and architectural heritage. Consecrated to the Presentation of the Virgin Mary, it is considered one of the oldest and most beautiful churches in the city. Originally built in the 15th century during the first Venetian occupation, the church was initially smaller and Orthodox. Around 1700, during the second Venetian period, it was transformed into its current form: a three-aisled basilica. The interior boasts a beautiful wooden chancel in the Eptanisian style, crafted in the 19th century, along with a pulpit and bishop's throne in the same style. The narthex was added later, while the bell tower dates back to 1907. The Church of Panagia also commemorates Aghios Anastasios, the patron saint of Nafplio. Every year on February 1st, the saint's feast day is celebrated with a grand procession of his icon. Today, the church is a popular pilgrimage site, especially known for the Good Friday procession that winds through the narrow streets of Psaromachalas, accompanied by the choir's chanting. Visitors often remark on the spiritual atmosphere and appreciate the church's structural beauty. Notably, the church is associated with the martyrdom of Saint Anastasios, who was tortured for his faith in 1655 near an olive tree on the temple's north side; this olive tree is now a protected natural monument.

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