Palamidi Fortress
NileGuide Expert Says:
Best thing to "buy the T shirt" for; climbing the stairs to the top and looking back at what you've done.Address:
Nafplion,
NileGuide Expert tip:
If you make the climb, start early, have water, and be sure to check the museum hours posted at the bottom so as not to be surprised once at the top!Description:
The Palamidi Fortress was built as a strategic hold for the Venetians from 1711-1714. Unfortunately it was so desirable the Ottomans came after it in 1715, one year after completion and took it for themselves. Fast forward a little over one hundred years to 1822 and it was again taken, this time by rebel Greek forces in the War of Independence. It served as a prison of great notoriety from 1840 until the mid 20th century, but is now just a romantic point above the sea as well as one of Nafplion's most defining landmarks.The legendary 999 steps is a bit exaggerated; there are in fact only a little over eight hundred, but it's still a considerable climb worth taking for an extraordinary view as well as a good dose of history. The jail cell of war hero, Kolokotronis is one of the best reasons to make it to the top.
For those not looking to exert themselves, drive up the back of the fortress via 25. Martiou Street, but if you take the hard way you don't have to pay the entrance fee.
Entrance fee: 4 euros (free if you arrive via the stairs)
May-Oct weekdays 8:30am- 7:00pm, weekends 8:30am-2:30pm, November-April *
Free on Sundays November-April
Map:
