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Palamidi Fortress: A Venetian Masterpiece Overlooking Nafplio

Explore the Fortress of Palamidi in Nafplio: A historic Venetian fortress with breathtaking views and a rich history of battles and heroes.

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The Fortress of Palamidi, an architectural marvel, stands tall on a hill overlooking Nafplio. Built by the Venetians in the early 18th century, it features eight self-contained bastions. Visitors can explore its historic walls, admire panoramic views, and delve into its rich past as a strategic stronghold and prison.

A brief summary to Fortress of Palamidi - Western Entry Gate

  • Arvanitias 1, Nafplion, 211 00, GR

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes, especially if you plan to climb the 857 steps from Nafplio. The stones can be slippery.
  • Visit during the spring or early fall for pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
  • Bring water, especially if climbing the steps, as the ascent can be strenuous.
  • Allow at least 1-2 hours to fully explore the fortress and enjoy the views.
  • Check the opening hours before you go, as they vary depending on the season.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Nafplio's Old Town, follow Arvanitias Street along the coast. The well-marked path leads to the base of Palamidi Hill, where the staircase to the western entrance begins. Be prepared for a steep climb of 857 steps. Allow approximately 30-60 minutes for the ascent, depending on your fitness level. There are no costs associated with walking to the fortress.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Nafplio's city center. A short taxi ride from the city center to the eastern entrance of Palamidi Fortress takes approximately 5-10 minutes. The typical fare ranges from €4-€6. Some taxi services offer tours that include waiting time at the fortress for around €50. This option avoids the strenuous climb.

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Discover more about Fortress of Palamidi - Western Entry Gate

Perched atop a 216-meter high hill, the Fortress of Palamidi dominates the city of Nafplio, offering breathtaking views of the Argolic Gulf. This imposing fortress, a masterpiece of Venetian military architecture, was constructed between 1711 and 1714 during the second Venetian occupation of the area. Designed by the renowned military architect Antonio Gambello, it stands as a testament to the advanced engineering techniques of the time. The fortress comprises eight bastions, each designed to be self-sufficient and independently defensible. These bastions, originally named after Venetian provveditori, were later renamed after Greek heroes following the Greek War of Independence. Visitors can explore the bastions of Achilles, Miltiades, Leonidas, and others, each offering unique perspectives and historical significance. The Miltiades Bastion notably served as a prison for Theodoros Kolokotronis, a hero of the Greek War of Independence. Over the centuries, Palamidi has played a crucial role in various conflicts and battles. Captured by the Turks in 1715, just a year after its completion, it remained under Ottoman control until 1822 when Greek rebels seized it, marking a turning point in the liberation of Nafplio. The fortress later served as a prison for long-term convicts. Today, Palamidi stands as a well-preserved monument to Venetian ingenuity and Greek resilience. Visitors can ascend the fortress via the famous 857 steps (not 999 as commonly believed) from Arvanitia or drive to the eastern gate. Exploring the worn stones, massive walls, and historic buildings offers an immersive experience into the past. Inside, discover the small church of Agios Andreas and the remnants of prison cells. The panoramic views of Nafplio and the Argolic Gulf are simply spectacular.

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