South in the Argolis area of Greece sits the pretty seaside resort of Naplion, once a major seaport which warranted three fortresses on account of its important strategic position. Throughout the town's long history it was passed from hand to hand by invasion until, from 1822 to 1834, it became the capital of the newly established Greek State after liberation from the Turks. History can be witnessed at every turn in the narrow streets of Naplion's picturesque old town lined with elegant Venetian and fine neo-classical buildings, Turkish fountains and waterfront restaurants, all overlooked by the impressive Palamidi Fortress. Constitution Square with its fascinating mosques and outdoor cafes is a wonderful place to sit and absorb.
It is an excellent base with a line of attractive beaches around the coastline as well as a host of excursions possibilities. These include the huge ancient theatre at Argos, the Acropolis of Mycenae, Ancient Nemea, the temples and marbled-paved streets of Ancient Corinth, the Corinth Canal and the Grand Theature of Ancient Epidaurus with its incomparible acoustics.
Lovers of ancient history will no doubt wish to visit another of Greece's important archaeological sites located further east, that of Ancient Olympia, the sacred site of the Pan-Hellenic Games and the forerunners of today's Olympic Games. The greatest honour for an athlete was to be crowned with a wreath of wild olive symbolising fair competition and sportsmanship. Today, the site is a complex of public buildings, priest's houses, the stadium and temples, the best preserved being the Temple of Hera dating from 6th century BC.
Situated in the Akronafplia area of Nafplion, the Nafplia Palace hotel is a luxurious hotel offering accommodation consisting of 48 rooms, 53 bungalows and 3 suites.
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