about nafplion 

The Town of Nafplion

Nafplion is situated along the Argolic Gulf in northeastern Peloponnesus, about 150 kilometers southwest of Athens. It is perhaps best known as the first capital of   Greece, yet the town’s historical significance far predates the emergence of the  modern Greek state, while its cultural vibrancy continues well into the present day.

Nafplion in Greek History

Nafplion and the surrounding Argolid region flourished as an administrative and military center for a succession of cultures dating back to the Bronze Age. Mycenaean, Archaic, and Classical Greek cultures left ample material remains throughout the region. The Byzantine Empire was the first to establish a strong presence directly in Nafplion. The earliest of Nafplion’s three fortresses, the Akronafplia, dates to the period of Byzantine rule. In the 14th century Nafplion became home to the Venetians, and subsequently changed hands between the Venetian and Ottoman empires multiple times over the next few centuries. The Venetians were responsible for the construction of two fortresses in Nafplio, the 15th century Bourtzi and the early 18th century Palamidi. During the War of Independence, which began in 1821, Nafplion, as a major Ottoman stronghold, was the site of an extended siege led by Theodoros Kolokotronis, who was later imprisoned in Palamidi Fortress for crimes of treason. In 1829, following the conclusion of the war, Ioannis Kapodistrias, the first head of the Greek state, established Nafplion as Greece’s first capital. Kapodistrias was assassinated in Nafplion two years later. The town retained its status as capital until 1834, when the newly installed King Otho (formerly Prince Otto of Bavaria) moved the government to Athens, where it remains today.

Nafplion Today

Today Nafplion is home to about 14,000 inhabitants and a popular destination for weekenders from Athens and tourists from around the world. Highlights of the town include interwoven architectural testaments to its diverse history, a number of noteworthy cultural museums and art galleries, and proximity to some of the most celebrated archaeological sites in Greece, including Mycenae, Epidauros, Nemea, and Tiryns.

Nafplion as the Home of the CHS in Greece

By putting down roots in the heart of Nafplion’s old town, the CHS is eager to provide a pioneering resource for researchers and for the surrounding community, as well as to facilitate direct interactions between the students, scholars, and community members of Harvard and of Greece. Nafplion’s prominent role in the shaping of modern Greece and its enduring cultural significance make it the perfect setting for such interactions and collaborations.

The Center for Hellenic Studies in Nafplion is housed in the historic Iatrou building.