Historical monuments of the city.
Nafplio Clock Tower
The Nafplio Clock Tower, also known as the “Heart of the City,” is one of the most recognizable historical landmarks of Nafplio. The clock tower was built in 1700 by the Venetians . Since its construction, it has been a symbol of the city and its cultural wealth. The clock tower served to signal the time to the city’s residents and sailors. While renovations and alterations have been made to its original form, the clock tower remains an important part of Nafplio’s history and cultural heritage.
Bavarian Lion
The Bavarian Lion of Nafplio is a monument that honors the Bavarian soldiers who helped establish the Kingdom of Greece in the 19th century. The monument was built in 1836 and pays tribute to the Bavarians who supported Greek independence, under the guidance of King Ludwig I of Bavaria. The Bavarian Lion is designed in the German Romantic style and depicts a lion in a majestic stance, symbolizing strength and honor. Despite its connection to the Bavarian presence in Greece, the monument has become a recognizable feature of Nafplio’s history and culture.
Land Gate
The Land Gate (Pili Xiras) is one of the main gates of the old town of Nafplio and is an important historical landmark. The gate was built by the Venetians in the 17th century and is located at the western part of the city. It served as the main entry point for those arriving from the land and was one of the gates of the impressive Venetian fortification system. The Dry Gate is tied to the city’s strategic importance and was a key defensive point during both Venetian and Ottoman rule. Today, the gate is a visitable monument and is an integral part of Nafplio’s historical heritage.
Syntagma Square
Syntagma Square is the central square of Nafplio and serves as the heart of the city. Its name comes from the Constitution of 1844, when Greece adopted its first Constitution. The square is home to significant buildings,and the Bavarian Lion Monument. The square is also a venue for cultural events and gatherings and is popular with both locals and tourists as a meeting point and place of relaxation.
Vouleftiko (or Parliament Building)
The Vouleftiko (or Parliament Building) in Nafplio is a historic structure that once served as the first parliament of independent Greece. Built in 1829, it was the seat of the Greek Government during the early years of the Greek War of Independence. The building features neoclassical architecture and is located in Syntagma Square. The first Greek parliament held its sessions here, and important decisions regarding the organization and consolidation of the new Greek state were made within its walls.